Row cleaner diverter

ABSTRACT

An agricultural row cleaner having: a frame; a first row cleaner wheel disposed on a first side of the frame; a second row cleaner wheel disposed on a second side of the frame; and a row cleaner diverter connected to the frame and disposed forward of the first row cleaner wheel and the second row cleaner wheel in a direction of travel and disposed between the first row cleaner wheel and the second row cleaner wheel.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Nos.63/005,559, filed 6 Apr. 2020; 63/010833, filed 16 Apr. 2020;63/017,869, filed 30 Apr. 2020; 63/040,311, filed 17 Jun. 2020;63/074,684, filed 4 Sep. 2020; 63/115,875, filed 19 Nov. 2020; and63/122,735, filed 8 Dec. 2020, all of which are incorporated herein byreference in their entireties.

BACKGROUND

Row cleaners are disposed forward of a trench opening assembly onplanters to move any crop residue, soil clods or other debris laterallyoutwardly to provide a cleaner seed bed area in preparation for therearwardly aligned trench opening assembly that opens the seed trenchinto which the seeds are deposited. While many commercially availablerow cleaners serve their intended purpose, a need exists for a rowcleaner assembly that provides improved performance.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top plan view of an embodiment of an agricultural planter.

FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of a planter row unitshowing an embodiment of row cleaner assembly incorporating a gaugewheel.

FIG. 2A is another side elevation view of an embodiment of a planter rowunit showing another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly substantiallythe same as shown in FIG. 2 , but without a gauge wheel.

FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 2.

FIG. 3A is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG.2A.

FIG. 4 is a right side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 3 .

FIG. 5 is a left side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG.3 .

FIG. 6 is front elevation view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 7 is a rear elevation view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 8 is a top plan view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 9 is a bottom plan view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 3 .

FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of the frame assembly of the rowcleaner assembly of FIG. 3 with the row cleaning wheels and gauge wheelremoved to better illustrate an embodiment of the frame assembly.

FIG. 11 is front perspective view of the frame assembly of FIG. 10 andshowing an exploded view of an embodiment of one of the row cleanerwheels.

FIG. 12 is an exploded rear perspective view of the frame assembly ofFIG. 10 .

FIG. 13 is an exploded front perspective view of an embodiment of theupper subframe of the frame assembly of FIG. 10 .

FIG. 14 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of theintermediate subframe of the frame assembly of FIG. 10 .

FIG. 15 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of thelower subframe of the frame assembly of FIG. 10 .

FIG. 16 is a side elevation view of an alternative embodiment of thelower subframe for the frame assembly of FIG. 10 .

FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of rear strut subframe of the frameassembly of FIG. 10 .

FIG. 18 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of a planter rowshowing another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly incorporating agauge wheel.

FIG. 18A is another side elevation view of an embodiment of a planterrow unit showing another embodiment of a row cleaner assemblysubstantially the same as shown in FIG. 18 , but without a gauge wheel.

FIG. 19 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG.18 .

FIG. 19A is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG.18A.

FIG. 20 is a right side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 19 .

FIG. 21 is a left side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 19 .

FIG. 22 is front elevation view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 19 .

FIG. 23 is a rear elevation view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 19.

FIG. 24 is a top plan view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 19 .

FIG. 25 is a bottom plan view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 19 .

FIG. 26 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG.19 with the row cleaning wheels and gauge wheel removed to betterillustrate an embodiment of the frame assembly.

FIG. 27 is front perspective view of the frame assembly of FIG. 26 andshowing an exploded view of an embodiment of one of the row cleanerwheels.

FIG. 28 is an exploded rear perspective view of the frame assembly ofFIG. 26 .

FIG. 29 is an exploded front perspective view of an embodiment of theupper subframe of the frame assembly of FIG. 26 .

FIG. 30 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of theintermediate subframe of the frame assembly of FIG. 26 .

FIG. 31 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of thelower subframe of the frame assembly of FIG. 26 .

FIG. 32 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of therear strut subframe of the frame assembly of FIG. 26 .

FIG. 33 is a perspective view of components of an embodiment of anactuator system showing an embodiment of an airbag actuator and apartially exploded spring assembly.

FIG. 34 is another side elevation view of an embodiment of a planter rowunit showing another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly incorporatinga gauge wheel.

FIG. 34A is another side elevation view of an embodiment of a planterrow unit showing another embodiment of a row cleaner assemblysubstantially the same as shown in FIG. 34 , but without a gauge wheel.

FIG. 35 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG.34 .

FIG. 35A is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG.34A.

FIG. 36 is a right side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 35 .

FIG. 37 is a left side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 35 .

FIG. 38 is front elevation view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 35 .

FIG. 39 is a rear elevation view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 35.

FIG. 40 is a top plan view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 35 .

FIG. 41 is a bottom plan view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 35 .

FIG. 42 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG.35 with the row cleaning wheels and gauge wheel removed to betterillustrate an embodiment of the frame assembly.

FIG. 43 is front perspective view of the frame assembly of FIG. 42 andshowing an exploded view of an embodiment of one of the row cleanerwheels.

FIG. 44 is an exploded rear perspective view of the frame assembly ofFIG. 42 .

FIG. 45 is an exploded perspective view of the lower subframe and rearstrut subframe of the frame assembly of FIG. 42 showing an exploded viewof an embodiment of a depth selector.

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of the intermediate subframe and linkagesof the frame assembly of FIG. 42 and showing an embodiment of anactuator system.

FIG. 47 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of theupper subframe of the frame assembly of FIG. 42 .

FIG. 48 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of theintermediate subframe of the frame assembly of FIG. 42 .

FIG. 49 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of thelinkages of the frame assembly of FIG. 42 .

FIG. 50 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of thelower subframe of the frame assembly of FIG. 42 .

FIG. 51 is a rear perspective view of rear strut subframe of the frameassembly of FIG. 42 .

FIG. 52A is a schematic representation illustrating the movement of therow cleaner assembly when the actuator system is actuated to a apply adownforce.

FIG. 52B is a schematic representation illustrating the movement of therow cleaner assembly when the actuator system is actuated to a apply alift force.

FIG. 53 is another side elevation view of an embodiment of a planter rowunit showing another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly incorporatinga gauge wheel.

FIG. 53A is another side elevation view of an embodiment of a planterrow unit showing another embodiment of a row cleaner assemblysubstantially the same as shown in FIG. 34 , but without a gauge wheel.

FIG. 54 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG.53 .

FIG. 54A is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG.53A.

FIG. 55 is a right side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 54 .

FIG. 56 is a left side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 54 .

FIG. 57 is front elevation view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 54 .

FIG. 58 is a rear elevation view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 54.

FIG. 59 is a top plan view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 54 .

FIG. 60 is a bottom plan view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 54 .

FIG. 61 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG.54 with the row cleaning wheels and gauge wheel removed to betterillustrate an embodiment of the frame assembly.

FIG. 62 is front perspective view of the frame assembly of FIG. 54 andshowing an exploded view of an embodiment of one of the row cleanerwheels.

FIG. 63 is an exploded rear perspective view of the frame assembly ofFIG. 54 .

FIG. 64 is an exploded perspective view of the lower subframe and rearstrut subframe of the frame assembly of FIG. 54 showing an exploded viewof an embodiment of a depth selector.

FIG. 65 is a perspective view of the intermediate subframe and linkagesof the frame assembly of FIG. 54 and showing an embodiment of anactuator system.

FIG. 66 is an exploded rear perspective view of an embodiment of theupper subframe of the frame assembly of FIG. 54 .

FIG. 67 is perspective view of an embodiment of the linkage of the frameassembly of FIG. 54 .

FIG. 68 is a perspective view of an embodiment of intermediate subframeof the frame assembly of FIG. 54 .

FIG. 69 is a front perspective view of an embodiment of the lowersubframe of the frame assembly of FIG. 54 .

FIG. 70 is a rear perspective view of rear strut subframe of the frameassembly of FIG. 54 .

FIG. 71 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of a planter rowunit showing an alternative mounting arrangement for any of thepreceding embodiments of the row cleaner assemblies.

FIG. 72 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of a planter rowunit showing another alternative embodiment of a row cleaner assemblyand mounting arrangement, therefore.

FIG. 73 is a rear perspective view of another embodiment of a rowcleaner assembly incorporating an embodiment of a third row cleanerwheel assembly.

FIG. 74 is a front perspective view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG.73 .

FIG. 75 is a right side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 73 .

FIG. 76 is a left side elevation view of the row cleaner assembly ofFIG. 73 .

FIG. 77 is a top plan view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 73 .

FIG. 78 is a bottom plan view of the row cleaner assembly of FIG. 73 .

FIG. 79 is an exploded right front perspective view of row cleanerassembly of FIG. 73 .

FIG. 80 is an exploded left front perspective view of the row cleanerassembly of FIG. 73 .

FIGS. 81 is a front right perspective view of another embodiment of arow cleaner assembly incorporating an embodiment of a row cleanerdiverter assembly.

FIG. 82 is a top plan view of the row cleaner assembly with the rowcleaner diverter assembly of FIG. 81 .

FIG. 83 is a bottom plan view of the row cleaner assembly with the rowcleaner diverter assembly of FIG. 81 .

FIG. 84 is the same front right perspective view of the row cleanerassembly with the row cleaner diverter assembly of FIG. 81 , but showingthe row cleaner wheels removed to better show the diverter assembly.

FIG. 85 is the same front right perspective view of the row cleanerassembly of FIG. 84 , but showing the row cleaner diverter assembly ofFIG. 81 exploded.

FIG. 86 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner diverter assemblyof FIG. 81 .

FIG. 87 is front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of therow cleaner diverter assembly adapted for the embodiment of the lowersubframe as depicted in FIGS. 50 and 69 .

FIG. 88 is a side elevation view of the embodiment of the row cleanerassembly of FIG. 3 showing alternative placement of load sensors fordetermining downforce exerted on the row cleaner assembly.

FIG. 89 is a side elevation view of the embodiment of the row cleanerassembly of FIG. 19 showing placement of load sensors for determiningdownforce exerted on the row cleaner assembly.

FIG. 90 is a side elevation view of the embodiment of the row cleanerassembly of FIG. 35 showing placement of load sensors for determiningdownforce exerted on the row cleaner assembly.

FIG. 91 is a side elevation view of the embodiment of the row cleanerassembly of FIG. 54 showing placement of load sensors for determiningdownforce exerted on the row cleaner assembly.

FIG. 92 is a front elevation view of an embodiment of one of the loadsensors depicted in FIGS. 88-91 .

FIG. 93 is a side elevation view of the load sensor of FIG. 92 .

FIG. 94 is a perspective view of the sleeve of the load sensor of FIG.92 .

FIG. 95 is a bottom perspective view of load sensing member of loadsensor of FIG. 92 .

FIG. 96 is a top perspective view of the load sensing member of FIG. 94.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

All references cited herein are incorporated herein in their entireties.If there is a conflict between a definition herein and in anincorporated reference, the definition herein shall control.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designateidentical or corresponding parts throughout the several views, FIG. 1illustrates a tractor 5 drawing an agricultural planter 10 in a forwarddirection of travel designated by arrow 11. The planter 10 includes atoolbar 14 operatively supporting multiple planter row units 200. Aplanter monitor 50 which may include a central processing unit (“CPU”),memory and graphical user interface (“GUI”) (e.g., a touch-screeninterface) may be located in the cab of the tractor 5. A globalpositioning system (“GPS”) receiver 52 may be mounted to the tractor 5.

FIG. 2 is a side elevation view of an embodiment of the planter row unit200. The row unit 200 includes a row unit frame 210 that includes adownwardly extending shank 254 and a rearwardly extending frame member212 supported from a forward bracket 214. The row unit frame 210 mayalso include an upper beam 215 also supported from the forward bracket214. The upper beam 215 may support one or more hoppers 226 containing asupply of seed and optionally a supply of fertilizer or other chemicalinputs. The row unit frame 202 may be pivotally connected to the toolbar14 by a parallel linkage 216. An actuator 218 may be disposed to applylift and/or downforce on the row unit 200. A solenoid valve 390 may bein fluid communication with the actuator 218 for modifying the liftand/or downforce applied by the actuator 218. An opening system 234 mayinclude two opening disks 244 rollingly mounted the downwardly extendingshank 254 and disposed to open a v-shaped trench 38 in the soil 40. Apair of gauge wheels 248 may be pivotally supported from the framemember 204 by a pair of corresponding gauge wheel arms 260. As is wellknown, the upward travel of the gauge wheels 248 relative to the openingdisks 244 defines the depth of the trench 38. A depth adjustment rocker268 limits the upward travel of the gauge wheel arms 260 and thus theupward travel of the gauge wheels 248. A depth adjustment actuator 380may be configured to modify a position of the depth adjustment rocker268 and thus the height of the gauge wheels 248. The actuator 380 may bea linear actuator mounted to the row unit 200 and pivotally coupled toan upper end of the rocker 268. In some embodiments, the depthadjustment actuator 380 may comprise a device such as disclosed inInternational Patent Application No. PCT/US2012/035585 (Publication No.WO2012149415). An encoder 382 may be configured to generate a signalrelated to the linear extension of the actuator 380; it should beappreciated that the linear extension of the actuator 380 is related tothe depth of the trench 38 when the gauge wheel arms 260 are in contactwith the rocker 268. A downforce sensor 392 may be configured togenerate a signal related to the amount of force imposed by the gaugewheels 248 on the soil 40; in some embodiments the downforce sensor 392may comprise an instrumented pin about which the rocker 268 is pivotallycoupled to the row unit 200, such as those instrumented pins disclosedin U.S. Patent Publication No. US2010/0180695.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 2 , a seed meter 230 such as that disclosedin International Patent Application No. PCT/US2012/030192 (PublicationNo. WO2012129442) may be disposed to deposit seeds 42 from a hopper 226into the trench 38, e.g., through a seed tube 232 disposed to guide theseeds toward the trench. In some embodiments, the seed meter 230 may bepowered by an electric drive 315 configured to drive a seed disc withinthe seed meter. In other embodiments, the drive 315 may comprise ahydraulic drive configured to drive the seed disc. A seed sensor 305(e.g., an optical or electromagnetic seed sensor configured to generatea signal indicating passage of a seed) may be mounted to the seed tube232 and disposed to send light or electromagnetic waves across the pathof seeds 42 to detect the passage of each seed. A closing system 236which may include one or more closing wheels may be pivotally coupled tothe row unit 200 and configured to close the trench 38.

FIG. 2 also shows an embodiment of a row cleaner assembly 1000 mountedto the toolbar 14 and positioned forward of the trench opening assembly234. It should be appreciated that each row unit 200 of the planter 10would have an associated row cleaner assembly 1000 longitudinallyaligned with the respective trench opening assembly 234 of the row unit200. In the embodiment shown, the row cleaner assembly 1000 includes agauge wheel 1050 (identified in FIG. 3 ). The row cleaner assembly 10000extends rearward of the toolbar 14 and is rigidly mounted to theunderside of toolbar 14 by suitable mounting structure, which mayinclude a mounting plate 1101 and one or more U-bolts 1001 as shown.Alternatively, the row cleaner assembly 1000 may be mounted to the topside, rear side or forward side of the toolbar 14 by any suitablemounting structure or connection, including bolted brackets or bywelding.

FIG. 2A shows an alternative embodiment of a row cleaner assemblydesignated by reference number 1000A. The embodiment of the row cleanerassembly 1000A is substantially the same as the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 1000 except the embodiment of 1000A does not includethe gauge wheel.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly1000 shown in FIG. 2 . FIG. 3A is the same view as in FIG. 3 but showsthe embodiment of the row cleaner assembly 1000A without the gaugewheel. Since both embodiments of the row cleaner assembly 1000 and 1000Aare substantially the same, other than the removal of the gauge wheel inembodiment 1000A, only the embodiment 1000 is described, recognizingthat any reference to the gauge wheel 1050, the gauge wheel axle 1051and associated components would not be applicable to the 1000Aembodiment.

FIGS. 4 and 5 are right and left side elevation views, respectively, ofthe row cleaner assembly 1000. FIGS. 6 and 7 are front and rearelevation views, respectively, and FIGS. 8 and 9 are top and bottomviews, respectively. The row cleaner assembly 1000 includes a frameassembly 1100 supported at its rearward end by a gauge wheel 1050. Rowcleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 are rotatably supported by the frameassembly 1100. Each row cleaner wheel 1060-1, 1060-2 includes radiallyspaced tines 1062 around its circumference. The row cleaner wheels1060-1, 1060-2 are oriented to diverge outwardly and rearwardly suchthat the tines 1062 of the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 interlaceat the forward end as they rotate. In operation, as the planter 10 movesin the forward direction of travel 11, the soil engages with the tines1062, causing the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 to rotate. Due totheir orientation, as the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 rotate, theydirect any crop residue, soil clods or other debris laterally outwardlyto provide a cleaner seed bed for the rearwardly aligned trench openingassembly 234. The gauge wheel 1050 serves to firm the soil 40 that maybe disturbed by row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 before the trench 38is opened by the trench opening assembly 234. Firming the soil with thegauge wheel 1050 may be advantageous in dry soils to prevent soil 40from falling into trench 38.

An actuator system 1300 is positioned within the fame assembly 1100 toprovide an adjustable downforce and optionally a lift force to the gaugewheel 1050 and row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2. In this embodiment,the actuator system 1300 comprises a pneumatic cylinder 1302, but theactuator system 1300 may utilize any actuator that provides anadjustable downforce and an optional lift force, including pneumaticcylinders, hydraulic cylinders, air bags, and electromechanicalactuators as discussed in more detail later.

FIG. 10 is a rear perspective view of the frame assembly 1100 with thegauge wheel 1050, the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 and the actuatorsystem 1300 removed for clarity. FIG. 11 is a front perspective view ofthe frame assembly 1100 with the gauge wheel 1050 and actuator system1300 and the first row cleaner wheel 1060-1 removed, but showing anexploded view of the second row cleaning wheel 1060-2 and its mountingcomponents. FIG. 12 is an exploded rear perspective view of the frameassembly 1100. Referring to FIGS. 10-12 , the frame assembly 1100includes an upper subframe 1100A, an intermediate subframe 1100B, alower subframe 1100C, a rear strut subframe 1100D and first and secondside linkages 1200-1, 1200-2. The rear strut subframe 1100D comprises apart of the lower subframe 1100C. The components comprising thesubframes 1100A, 1100B, 1100C and 1100D are described in more detaillater.

As best illustrated in FIG. 12 , the intermediate subframe 1100B ispivotally connected at its forward end to the upper subframe 1100A bythreaded connectors 1002 received within aligned apertures 1003, 1004 inthe respective intermediate subframe 1100B and upper subframe 1100A. Theintermediate subframe 1100B is also pivotally connected at its rearwardend to the rear strut subframe 1100D comprising a part of the lowersubframe 1100C by threaded connectors 1006 received within alignedapertures 1007, 1008 in the respective intermediate subframe 1100B andrear strut subframe 1100D. First and second side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2are pivotally connected at their forward end to the upper subframe 1100Aby threaded connectors 1010 received within aligned apertures 1011, 1012in the respective first and second side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2 andupper subframe 1100A. The first and second side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2are pivotally connected at their rearward end to the rear strut subframe1100D by threaded connectors 1014 received within aligned apertures1015, 1016 in the respective first and second linkages 1200-1, 1200-2and rear strut subframe 1100D. The rear strut subframe 1100D isrotationally fixed with the lower subframe 1100C by threaded connectors1018 received within an arcuate slot 1019 in the lower frame 1100C andwhich threadably engages with an opening 1021 in the rear strut subframe1100D. The rear strut subframe 1100D is connected with the lowersubframe 1100C by the gauge wheel axle bolt 1051 received throughaligned apertures 1022, 1023 in the respective lower frame 1100C andrear strut subframe 1100D. It should be apparent that in the 1000Aembodiment which omits the gauge wheel 1050, short bolts may extendthrough the apertures 1022, 1023 secured by nuts (not shown) in place ofthe gauge wheel axle bolt 1051. It should be appreciated that theforward pivotal connections of the upper subframe 1100A with theintermediate subframe 1100B and the side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2,together with the rearward pivotal connections of the intermediatesubframe 1100B and the side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2 with the rear strutsubframe 1100D provides a four bar linkage that permits the intermediateand lower subframes 1100B, 1100C to move vertically with respect to theupper subframe 1100A rigidly secured to the toolbar 14.

FIG. 13 shows an exploded front perspective view of the upper subframe1100A. The upper subframe 1100A includes first and second gusset plates1102-1, 1102-2 that extend downwardly from the mounting plate 1101 andare laterally spaced by a front plate 1104. The gusset plates 1102-1,1102-2 may include gusset tabs 1105 which are received in gusset tabslots 1106 in the mounting plate 1101. The front plate 1104 includes acutout 1107 to accommodate the actuator 1302 passing therethrough (seeFIGS. 6-7 ). The front plate 1104 may include actuator front mountingears 1108-1, 1108-2 extending downwardly from the front plate 1104. Eachof the actuator front mounting ears 1108-1, 1108-2 may include a hole1109 to receive a pin 1110 (FIG. 11 ) for mounting the forward end ofthe actuator 1302 to the upper subframe 1100A (see FIG. 6 ). Each of theactuator front mounting ears 1108-1, 1108-2 may include an ear tab 1111that is received within respective ear tab slots 1112 in the front plate1104. The front plate 1104 may also include side tabs 1113 that arereceived with side tab slots 1114 in the gusset plates 1102-1, 1102-2.It should be appreciated that rather than using tabs and slotsconnecting the individual parts of the upper subframe 1100A, theindividual parts of the upper subframe 1100A may be connected by weldingor by bolted connections. Alternatively, the upper subframe 1100A may befabricated as a single part, such as by casting. The gusset plates1102-1, 1102-2 include the apertures 1004 for receiving the threadedconnectors 1002 for pivotally securing the intermediate subframe 1100Bthereto as described above in connection with FIG. 12 . Additionally,the gusset plates 1102-1, 1102-2 include the apertures 1012 forreceiving the threaded connectors 1010 for pivotally securing the firstand second side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2 described above in connectionwith FIG. 12 . The gusset plates 1102-1, 1102-2 also include apertures1115 and 1116 for receiving upper and lower threaded connectors 1117,1118 (FIGS. 11 and 12 ) which function as upper and lower stops byabutting with the first and second side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2 to limitthe upward and downward vertical movement of the four bar linkage.

FIG. 14 shows an exploded rear perspective view of the intermediatesubframe 1100B. The intermediate subframe 1100B includes a base member1120 and first and second side rails 1121-1, 1121-2. The base member1120 includes a cutout 1122 to accommodate the actuator 1302 (see FIGS.3, 6 ). The base member 1120 may include side tabs 1123 that arereceived within side tab slots 1124 in the side rails 1121-1, 1121-2.The rearward end of the base member 1120 may include an actuator rearmounting ear 1125. The actuator rear mounting ear 1125 may include ahole 1126 to receive a pin 1127 (FIG. 3, 10 ) for mounting the rear endof the actuator 1302 to the intermediate subframe 1100B. The actuatorrear mounting ear 1125 may include an ear tab 1128 that is receivedwithin an ear tab slot 1129 in the base member 1120. It should beappreciated that rather than using tabs and slots connecting theindividual parts of the intermediate subframe 1100B, the individualparts of the intermediate subframe 1100B may be connected by welding orby bolted connections. Alternatively, the intermediate subframe 1100Bmay be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. The side rails1121-1, 1122-2 include the forward aperture 1011 for receiving thethreaded connector 1010 for pivotally securing the side rails 1121-1,1121-2 of the intermediate subframe 1100B to the gussets 1012-1, 1012-2of the upper subframe 1100A as described above in connection with FIG.12 and the side rails 1121-1, 1122-2 include the rearward aperture 1015for receiving the threaded connector 1014 for pivotally securing theside rails 1121-1, 1121-2 of the intermediate subframe 1100B to the rearstrut subframe 1100D as described above in connection with FIG. 12 .

FIG. 15 shows an exploded rear perspective view of the lower subframe1100C. The lower subframe 1100C includes first and second row cleanerwheel support arms 1130-1, 1130-2 connected at their forward end by aforward plate 1132. The forward plate 1132 may include side tabs 1133that are received within side tab slots 1134 in the first and second rowcleaner wheel support arms 1130-1, 1130-2. It should be appreciated thatrather than using tabs and slots connecting the individual parts of thelower subframe 1100C, the individual parts of the lower subframe 1100Cmay be connected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, thelower subframe 1100C may be fabricated as a single part, such as bycasting. Each of the first and second row cleaner wheel support arms1130-1, 1130-2 includes a square opening 1135 for receiving a squareshank portion 1063 (FIG. 11 ) of a respective one of the row cleanerwheel axle bolts 1061-1, 1061-2 (FIG. 11 ) as discussed in more detaillater. Each row cleaner wheel support arm 1130-1, 1130-2 also includesthe opening 1022 for receiving the gauge wheel axle bolt 1051 as shownin FIGS. 10-12 . Each row cleaner wheel support arm 1130-1, 1130-2 alsoincludes the arcuate slot 1019 for receiving the threaded connector 1018that is threadably received by the rear strut subframe 1100D forsecuring the row cleaner wheel support arms 1130-1, 1130-2 to the rearstrut subframe 1100D as described above in connection with FIG. 12 . Itshould be appreciated that the arcuate slot 1019 and threaded connector1018 cooperate to form a depth selector 1400 permitting the lowersubframe 1100C to pivot about the gauge wheel axle bolt 1051 such thatthe row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 are adjustably positionablerelative to the rear strut subframe 1100D and the gauge wheel 1050 inorder to vary the depth setting of the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2relative to the gauge wheel 1050. In an alternative embodiment as shownin FIG. 16 , instead of a single arcuate slot 1019, a series of discreteopenings 1019a disposed along an arc may be used instead to providediscrete depth settings for the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2relative to the gauge wheel 1050.

FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view of the rear strut subframe 1100D. Therear strut subframe 1100D includes first and second struts 1140-1,1140-2 spaced by a lateral plate 1142. The lateral plate 1142 mayinclude tabs 1143 that are received within slots 1144 of each of thefirst and second struts 1140-1, 1140-2. Alternatively, the lateral plate1142 may be attached to the struts 1140-1, 1140-2 by welding or boltedconnections. Alternatively, the struts 1140-1, 1140-2 and the lateralplate 1142 may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. Eachof the first and second struts 1140-1, 1140-2 include the aperture 1016for receiving the threaded connector 1014 for connecting with therespective side linkages 1200-1, 1200-2 and each of the first and secondstruts 1140-1, 1140-2 include the aperture 1023 for receiving the gaugewheel axle bolt 1051 as described above in connection with FIG. 12 .

The rear strut subframe 1000D may include a scraper 1145 to remove soilor debris that may build up on the gauge wheel 1050 during operation.The scraper 1145 may be attached to the lateral plate 1142 between therear struts 1140-1, 1140-2 of the rear strut subframe 1000D and maycomprise a plate having an arcuate edge 1146 that approximates theprofile of the gauge wheel 1050 (see FIGS. 3, 7 and 8 ). The scraper1145 may be attached to the lateral plate 1142 with threaded connectors1148 extending through elongated holes 1147 that align with internallythreaded apertures 1149 in the lateral plate 1142. The elongated holes1147 will permit the scraper 1145 to be adjustably positioned relativeto the lateral plate 1142 to vary the distance to the gauge wheel 1050to accommodate different gauge wheel sizes and profiles and to accountfor wear of the gauge wheel tread and the scraper 1145.

Referring to FIG. 11 , the square opening 1135 in each of the rowcleaner wheel support arms 1130-1, 1130-2 and the square shank portion1063 of the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 1061-1, 1061-2 cooperate torotationally restrain the row cleaner axle bolts 1061-1, 1061-2 to therow cleaner wheel support arms 1130-1, 1130-2. Each row cleaner wheelaxle bolt 1061-2, 1061-2 receives a spacer 1063. Each row cleaner wheelaxle bolt 1061-2, 1061-2 extends through a central opening 1064 withineach of the respective first and second cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2. Abushing 1065 is received over the end of each row cleaner wheel axlebolts 1061-2, 1061-2 and the bushing is received within a hub 1070having a central opening 1071. The hub 1070 is secured to the respectivefirst and second row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 by nuts 1072threadably received over threaded connectors 1074 which extend throughapertures 1066 in the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 and throughaligned holes 1073 in the hub 1070. A lug nut 1075 threadably receivesthe end of the wheel axle bolts 1061-2, 1061-2 thereby axiallyrestraining the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2 onto the respectiverow cleaner wheel axle bolts 1061-2, 1061-2, while the spacer 1063 andthe bushing 1065 permit the row cleaner wheels row cleaner wheels1060-1, 1060-2 to freely rotate about the respective row cleaner wheelaxle bolts 1061-2, 1061-2.

Referring to FIGS. 3 and 12 , the gauge wheel axle bolt 1051 extendsthrough the aligned apertures 1022, 1023 in the respective first andsecond row cleaner wheel support arms 1130-1, 1130-2 of the lowersubframe 1100C and the struts 1140-1, 1140-2 of the rear strut subframe1100D and through the hub 1052 (FIG. 3 ) of the gauge wheel 1050. Spacerbushings 1053 (FIG. 12 ) may be disposed on the gauge wheel axle bolt1051 on each side of the hub 1052 to keep the gauge wheel 1050 centeredbetween the struts 1140-1, 1140-2. A nut 1054 threads onto the end ofthe gauge wheel axle bolt 1051 securing the gauge wheel 1050 to thelower subframe 1100C and rear strut subframe 1100D.

As previously stated, the actuator system 1300 may utilize any actuatorthat provides an adjustable downforce and an optional lift force,including pneumatic cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, air bags, andelectromechanical actuators. In one embodiment, the actuator 1302comprising the actuator system 1300 is a CleenSweep® cylinder availablefrom Precision Planting LLC, 23207 Townline Rd, Tremont, IL 61568, whichis described in U.S. Pat. No. 8,550,020 or a DeltaForce® cylinder alsoavailable from Precision Planting, which is described in U.S. Pat. No.9,144,189. The downforce exerted by the actuator system 1302 on thegauge wheel 1050 may be controlled by a controller (such as the“controller 300” referenced in U.S. Pat. No. 8,550,020) or by a fluidcontrol port (such as the “fluid control port 10” described in PCTPublication No. WO2020/056395). The actuators 1302 of each of the rowcleaner assemblies 1000 of the planter 10 may be controlled on arow-by-row basis, or as groups by section of the planter 10, orcollectively across the entire planter 10.

The desired amount of downforce may be a function of the soil conditionsand the amount or type of crop residue and the depth at which the rowcleaner wheels 1060 are set for engagement with the soil. For example,in dry soil conditions, more downforce may be desired such that thegauge wheel 1050 will more firmly pack the soil 40 in front of theopening assembly 234 for formation of a better seed trench 38 and toprevent or minimize soil falling into the seed trench 38 before the seedis deposited. Alternatively in wet soil conditions, less downforce maybe desired. A downforce monitoring system (discussed later) may beemployed for determining and regulating the downforce applied by theactuator system 1300.

FIG. 18 is a side elevation of the planter row unit 200 as previouslydescribed above in connection with FIG. 2 , but with another embodimentof a row cleaner assembly designated by reference number 2000. The rowcleaner assembly 2000 is mounted to the toolbar 14 and is positionedforward of the trench opening assembly 234. Again, it should beappreciated that each row unit 200 of the planter 10 would have anassociated row cleaner assembly 2000 longitudinally aligned with therespective trench opening assembly 234 of the row unit 200. In theembodiment shown, the row cleaner assembly 2000 includes a gauge wheel2050 (identified in FIG. 19 ). The row cleaner assembly 2000 extendsrearward of the toolbar 14 and is rigidly mounted to the underside oftoolbar 14 by suitable mounting structure, which may include a mountingplate 2101 and one or more U-bolts 2001 as shown. Alternatively, the rowcleaner assembly 2000 may be mounted to the top side, rear side orforward side of the toolbar 14 by any suitable mounting structure orconnection, including bolted brackets or by welding.

FIG. 18A shows an alternative embodiment of a row cleaner assemblydesignated by reference number 2000A. The embodiment of the row cleanerassembly 2000A is substantially the same as the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 2000 except the embodiment of 2000A does not includethe gauge wheel.

FIG. 19 is an enlarged rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly2000 shown in FIG. 18 . FIG. 19A is the same view as in FIG. 19 butshows the embodiment of the row cleaner assembly 2000A without the gaugewheel. Since both embodiments of the row cleaner assembly 2000 and 2000Aare substantially the same, other than the removal of the gauge wheel inembodiment 2000A, only the embodiment 2000 is described, recognizingthat any reference to the gauge wheel 2050, the gauge wheel axle 2051and associated components would not be applicable to the 2000Aembodiment.

FIGS. 20 and 21 are right and left side elevation views, respectively,of the row cleaner assembly 2000. FIGS. 22 and 23 are front and rearelevation views, respectively, and FIGS. 24 and 25 are top and bottomviews, respectively. The row cleaner assembly 2000 includes a frameassembly 2100 supported at its rearward end by a gauge wheel 2050. Rowcleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 are rotatably supported by the frameassembly 2100. Each row cleaner wheel 2060-1, 2060-2 includes radiallyspaced tines 2062 around its circumference. The row cleaner wheels2060-1, 2060-2 are oriented to diverge outwardly and rearwardly suchthat the tines 2062 of the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 interlaceat the forward end as they rotate. In operation, as the planter 10 movesin the forward direction of travel 11, the soil engages with the tines2062, causing the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 to rotate. Due totheir orientation, as the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 rotate, theydirect any crop residue, soil clods or other debris laterally outwardlyto provide a cleaner seed bed for the rearwardly aligned trench openingassembly 234. The gauge wheel 2050 serves to firm the soil 40 that maybe disturbed by row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 before the trench 38is opened by the trench opening assembly 234. Firming the soil with thegauge wheel 2050 may be advantageous in dry soils to prevent soil 40from falling into trench 38.

An actuator system 2300 is positioned within the fame assembly 2100 toprovide an adjustable downforce and optionally a lift force to the gaugewheel 2050 and row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2. In this embodiment,the actuator system 2300 comprises an air bag 2302 and a spring assembly2310, but the actuator system 1300 may utilize any actuator thatprovides an adjustable downforce and an optional lift force, includingpneumatic cylinders, hydraulic cylinders, air bags, andelectromechanical actuators as discussed in more detail later.

FIG. 26 is a rear perspective view of the frame assembly 2100 with thegauge wheel 2050, the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 and the actuatorsystem 2300 removed for clarity. FIG. 27 is a front perspective view ofthe frame assembly 2100 with the gauge wheel 2050 and actuator system2300 and the first row cleaner wheel 2060-1 removed, but showing anexploded view of the second row cleaning wheel 2060-2 and its mountingcomponents. FIG. 28 is an exploded rear perspective view of the frameassembly 2100. Referring to FIGS. 26-28 , the frame assembly 2100includes an upper subframe 2100A, an intermediate subframe 2100B, alower subframe 2100C, a rear strut subframe 2100D, and first and secondlinkages 2200-1, 2200-2. The rear strut subframe 2100D comprises a partof the lower subframe 2100C. The subframes 2100A, 2100B, 2100C and 2100Dare described in more detail later.

As best illustrated in FIG. 28 , the intermediate subframe 2100B ispivotally connected at its forward end to the upper subframe 2100A bythreaded connectors 2002 received within aligned apertures 2003, 2004 inthe respective intermediate subframe 2100B and upper subframe 2100A. Theintermediate subframe 2100B is pivotally connected at its rearward endby threaded connectors 2006 received within aligned apertures 2007, 2008and 2009 in the respective intermediate subframe 2100B, the rear strutsubframe 2100D and in the lower subframe 2100C. It should be appreciatedthat apertures 2007 in the rearward end of the intermediate subframe2100B is internally threaded for receiving the threads of the threadedconnector 2006. The aperture 2008 in the rear strut subframe 2100D issized to pivotally receive the unthreaded shank of the threadedconnector 2006, and the aperture 2008 in the lower subframe 2100C is anelongated opening 2008 sized to receive the head of the threadedconnector 2006. Thus the lower subframe 2100C is not connected with therear strut subframe by the threaded connector 2006. Instead theelongated opening 2008 serves as a guide within which the head of thethreaded connector 2006 moves.

First and second linkages 2200-1, 2200-2 are pivotally connected attheir forward end to the upper subframe 2100A by threaded connectors2010 received within aligned apertures 2011, 2012 in the respectivefirst and second linkages 2200-1, 2200-2 and the upper subframe 2100A.The first and second linkages 2200-1, 2200-2 are pivotally connected attheir rearward end to the rear strut subframe 2100D by threadedconnectors 2014 received within aligned apertures 2015, 2016 in therespective first and second linkages 2200-1, 2200-2 and rear strutsubframe 2100D.

The rear strut subframe 2100D is rotationally fixed to the lowersubframe 2100C by threaded connectors 2018 received within an arcuateslot 2019 in the lower frame 2100C and which threadably engages with athreaded aperture 2021 in the rear strut subframe 2100D. The rear strutsubframe 2100D is connected with the lower subframe 2100C by the gaugewheel axle bolt 2051 received through aligned apertures 2022, 2023 inthe respective lower frame 2100C and the rear strut subframe 2100D. Itshould be apparent that in the 2000A embodiment which omits the gaugewheel 2050, short bolts may extend through the apertures 2022, 2023secured by nuts (not shown) in place of the gauge wheel axle bolt 2051.It should be appreciated that the forward pivotal connections of theupper subframe 2100A with the intermediate subframe 2100B and thelinkages 2200-1, 2200-2, together with the rearward pivotal connectionsof the intermediate subframe 2100B and the linkages 2200-1, 2200-2 withthe rear strut subframe 2100D and the lower subframe 2100C provides afour bar linkage that permits the intermediate and lower subframes2100B, 2100C to move vertically with respect to the upper subframe 2100Arigidly secured to toolbar 14.

Continuing to refer to the exploded view of FIG. 28 , the rear strutsubframe 2100D may also include an optional depth selector 2400 in orderto vary the depth setting of the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2relative to the gauge wheel 2050. The depth selector 2400 includes athumbscrew 2024 having a threaded shank and a peg end. The threadedshank of the thumbscrew 2024 threads into an internally threaded hole2025 in the lower subframe 2100C while the peg end of the thumbscrew2024 engages with one of a series of discrete holes 2026 are arranged inan arc in the rear strut subframe 2100D. It should be appreciated thatthe relative angle or position of the lower subframe 2100C is able to bemovably adjusted with respect to the rear strut subframe 2100D, byloosening the threaded connector 2018 passing through the arcuate slot2019 and into the threaded aperture 2021. When the lower subframe 2100Cis adjusted to the desired angle or position (the threaded connectormoving within the arcuate slot 2019 and the threaded connector 2006moving within the elongated opening 2009), the thumbscrew 2024 can beturned to cause the peg end to seat within one of the discrete holes2026. The threaded connector 2018 can then be tightened to secure thelower subframe 2100C to the rear strut subframe 2100D. Alternatively, asdescribed above in connection with FIG. 16 of the row cleaner embodiment1000, the arcuate slot 2019 may be replaced with a series of discreteholes arranged in an arc (not shown but corresponding to holes 2019a inFIG. 16 ) and the thumbscrew 2024 and the holes 2019 and 2026 may beeliminated, but the use of the depth selector 2400 described above makesit easier to set the desired angle or position of the lower subframe2100C with respect to the rearward strut subframe 2100D.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 28 , a spring assembly 2310 comprising aportion of the actuator system 2300 (discussed later) is secured to theintermediate subframe 2100B by threaded connectors 2028 received withinaligned apertures 2029, 2030 in the respective intermediate subframe2100B and a lower rod 2302 of the spring assembly 2310. The springassembly 2310 is secured to the upper subframe 2100A by threadedconnectors 2032 received within aligned apertures 2033, 2034 in therespective upper subframe 2100A and a U-shaped bracket 2320 (discussedlater) of the spring assembly 2310.

Continuing to refer to FIG. 28 , a threaded connector 2036 passesthrough an arched opening 2037 in the upper subframe 2100A and isreceived within an aperture 2038 in the intermediate subframe 2100B. Asdiscussed later, as the intermediate subframe 2100D moves relative tothe upper subframe 2100B (as part of the four bar linkage), the threadedconnector 2036 moves along the arched opening 2037. When the threadedconnector 2026 abuts with the upper end of the arched opening 2037 itserves as an upward stop, preventing further upward movement of theintermediate subframe 2100B. When the threaded connector 2026 abuts withthe lower end of the arched opening 2037 it serves as a downward stop,preventing further downward movement of the intermediate subframe 2100B.

FIG. 29 shows an exploded front perspective view of the upper subframe2100A. The upper subframe 2100A includes first and second gusset plates2102-1, 2102-2 that extend downwardly from the mounting plate 2101 andare laterally spaced by a front plate 2104. The gusset plates 2102-1,2102-2 may have an upper forward hook 2103 for receiving the forwardedge of the mounting plate 2101 The gusset plates 2102-1, 2102-2 mayinclude gusset tabs 2105 which are received in gusset tab slots 2106 inthe mounting plate 2101. Alternatively, ear plates 2107 having gussettabs 2109 may be received in the gusset tab slots 2106 in the mountingplate 2101. The ear plates 2107 may be attached to the gusset plates2102-1, 2102-2 by threaded connectors 2108 (FIG. 28 ) received withinaligned apertures 2110, 2111 in the respective gusset plates 2102-1,2102-2 and ear plates 2107. The front plate 2104 may include side tabs2112 that are received with side tab slots 2113 in the gusset plates2102-1, 2102-2. It should be appreciated that rather than using tabs andslots connecting the individual parts of the upper subframe 2100A, theindividual parts of the upper subframe 2100A may be connected by weldingor by bolted connections. Alternatively, the upper subframe 2100A may befabricated as a single part, such as by casting.

The front plate 2104 includes an aperture 2114 through which extends anupper nipple of the airbag 2302 and onto which a fitting 2126 isthreadably received (discussed later). The gusset plates 2102-1, 2102-2include the apertures 2004 for receiving the threaded connectors 2002for pivotally securing the intermediate subframe 2100B thereto asdescribed above in connection with FIG. 28 . Additionally, each of thegusset plates 2102-1, 2102-2 includes the apertures 2012 for receivingthe threaded connectors 2010 for pivotally securing the first and secondlinkages 2200-1, 2200-2 thereto as described above in connection withFIG. 28 . Each of the gusset plates 2102-1, 2102-2 also includes theaperture 2033 that receives the threaded connector 2032 that secures theU-shaped bracket of the spring assembly 2310 (discussed later).Additionally, each of the gusset plates 2102-1, 2102-2 also includes thearched opening 2037 in which the threaded connector 2036 is movable asdescribed above in connection with FIG. 28 .

FIG. 30 shows an exploded rear perspective view of the intermediatesubframe 2100B. The intermediate subframe 2100B includes a base member2120 and first and second side rails 2121-1, 2121-2. The base member2120 may include side tabs 2122 that are received within side tabnotches 2123 in the side rails 2121-1, 2121-2. The base member 2120includes an aperture 2124 through which extends a threaded connector2125 (FIG. 28 ) for securing the lower end of the airbag 2302 to thebase member 2120. It should be appreciated that rather than using tabsand slots connecting the individual parts of the intermediate subframe2100B, the individual parts of the intermediate subframe 2100B may beconnected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, theintermediate subframe 2100B may be fabricated as a single part, such asby casting. Each of the side rails 2121-1, 2122-2 includes the forwardaperture 2003 for receiving the threaded connector 2002 for pivotallysecuring the side rails 2121-1, 2121-2 of the intermediate subframe2100B to the gussets 2012-1, 2012-2 of the upper subframe 2100A asdescribed above in connection with FIG. 28 . Each of the side rails2121-1, 2122-2 includes the rearward aperture 2007 for receiving thethreaded connector 2006 as described above in connection with FIG. 28 .Each of the side rails 2121-1, 2122-2 includes aperture 2029 forreceiving the threaded connector 2028 for attaching the rod of thespring assembly 2310 (discussed later). Each of the side rails 2121-1,2122-2 includes the aperture 2038 for receiving the threaded connectors2036 that is received within the arched opening 2037 of the uppersubframe 2100A as described above in connection with FIG. 28 .

FIG. 31 shows an exploded rear perspective view of the lower subframe2100C. The lower subframe 2100C includes first and second row cleanerwheel support arms 2130-1, 2130-2 connected at their forward end by aforward plate 2132. The forward plate 2132 may include side tabs 2133that are received within side tab slots 2134 in the first and second rowcleaner wheel support arms 2130-1, 2130-2. It should be appreciated thatrather than using tabs and slots connecting the individual parts of thelower subframe 2100C, the individual parts of the lower subframe 2100Cmay be connected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, thelower subframe 2100C may be fabricated as a single part, such as bycasting. Each of the first and second row cleaner wheel support arms2130-1, 2130-2 includes a square opening 2135 for receiving a squareshank portion 2063 (FIG. 27 ) of a respective one of the row cleanerwheel axle bolts 2061-1, 2061-2 (FIG. 27 ) as discussed in more detailbelow. Each row cleaner wheel support arm 2130-1, 2130-2 also includesthe opening 2022 for receiving the gauge wheel axle bolt 2051 as shownin FIG. 28 . Each row cleaner wheel support arm 2130-1, 2130-2 alsoincludes the elongated opening 2009 in which the threaded connector 2006is received as described above in connection with FIG. 28 . Each rowcleaner wheel support arm 2130-1, 2130-2 also includes the arcuate slot2019 for receiving the threaded connector 2018 as described above inconnection with FIG. 28 . Each row cleaner wheel support arm 2130-1,2130-2 also includes the aperture 2025 for receiving the thumbscrew 2024as described above in connection with FIG. 28 .

FIG. 32 is a rear perspective view of the rear strut subframe 2100D. Therear strut subframe 2100D includes first and second struts 2140-1,2140-2 spaced by a lateral plate 2142. The lateral plate 2142 mayinclude tabs 2143 that are received within slots 2144 of each of thefirst and second struts 2140-1, 2140-2. Alternatively, the lateral plate2142 may be attached to the struts 2140-1, 2140-2 by welding or boltedconnections. Alternatively, the struts 2140-1, 2140-2 and the lateralplate 2142 may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting. Eachof the struts 2140-1, 2140-2 include the aperture 2022 that aligns withthe aperture 2023 in the lower subframe 2100C for receiving the axlewheel bolt 2051 as described above in connection with FIG. 28 . Each ofthe struts 2140-1, 2140-2 also include the aperture 2008 through whichthe threaded connector 2006 extends, as well as the aperture 2016 forreceiving the threaded connector 2014, and the internally threadedaperture 2021 for receiving the threaded connector 2018, as well as theseries of holes 2026 arranged in an arc into which the peg end of thethumbscrew 2024 are received all as described above in connection withFIG. 28 .

The rear strut subframe 2100D may include a scraper 2145 to remove soilor debris that may build up on the gauge wheel 2050 during operation.The scraper 2145 may be attached to the lateral plate 2142 between therear struts 2140-1, 2140-2 of the rear strut subframe 2100D and maycomprise a plate having an arcuate edge 2146 that approximates theprofile of the gauge wheel 2050 (see FIG. 19 ). The scraper 2145 may beattached to the lateral plate 2142 with threaded connectors 2148extending through elongated holes 2147 that align with internallythreaded apertures 2149 in the lateral plate 2142. The elongated holes2147 will permit the scraper 2145 to be adjustably positioned relativeto the lateral plate 2142 to vary the distance to the gauge wheel 2050to accommodate different gauge wheel sizes and profiles and to accountfor wear of the gauge wheel tread and the scraper 2145.

Referring to FIG. 27 , the square opening 2135 in each of the rowcleaner wheel support arms 2130-1, 2130-2 and the square shank portion2063 of the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 2061-1, 2061-2 cooperate torotationally restrain the row cleaner axle bolts 2061-1, 2061-2 to therow cleaner wheel support arms 2130-1, 2130-2. Each row cleaner wheelaxle bolt 2061-2, 2061-2 receives a spacer 2063. Each row cleaner wheelaxle bolt 2061-2, 2061-2 extends through a central opening 2064 withineach of the respective first and second cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2. Abushing 2065 is received over the end of each row cleaner wheel axlebolts 2061-2, 2061-2 and the bushing is received within a hub 2070having a central opening 2071. The hub 2070 is secured to the respectivefirst and second row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 by nuts 2072threadably received over threaded connectors 2074 which extend throughapertures 2066 in the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 and throughaligned holes 2073 in the hub 2070. A lug nut 2075 threadably receivesthe end of the wheel axle bolts 2061-2, 2061-2 thereby axiallyrestraining the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 onto the respectiverow cleaner wheel axle bolts 2061-2, 2061-2, while the spacer 2063 andthe bushing 2065 permit the row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2 to freelyrotate about the respective row cleaner wheel axle bolts 2061-2, 2061-2.

Referring to FIGS. 19 and 28 , the gauge wheel axle bolt 2051 extendsthrough the aligned apertures 2022, 2023, respectively in the first andsecond row cleaner wheel support arms 2130-1, 2130-2 of the lowersubframe 2100C and the struts 2040-1, 2040-2 of the rear strut subframe2100D and through the hub 2052 (FIG. 19 ) of the gauge wheel 2050.Spacer bushings 2053 (FIG. 28 ) may be disposed on the gauge wheel axlebolt 2051 on each side of the hub 2052 to keep the gauge wheel 2050centered between the struts 2040-1, 2040-2. A nut 2054 threads onto theend of the gauge wheel axle bolt 2051 securing the gauge wheel 2050 tothe lower subframe 2100C and rear strut subframe 2100D.

FIG. 33 is an exploded perspective view of the actuator system 2300comprising the airbag 2302 and the spring assembly 2310. Referring toFIG. 33 in combination with FIG. 29 , the airbag 2302 is secured at itsupper end by the fitting 2126 threadably receiving the nipple 2127extending through the aperture 2114 in the front plate 2040 of the uppersubframe 2100A. Referring to FIG. 33 in combination with FIGS. 28 and 30, the airbag 2302 is secured at its lower end by the threaded connector2125 extending through the aperture 2124 in the base member 2120 of theintermediate subframe 2100B. Referring to FIG. 33 in combination withFIGS. 27, 28 and 29 , the spring assembly 2310 is secured to theintermediate subframe 2100B and is received between the gusset plates2102-1, 2102-2 of the upper subframe 2100A forward of the front plate2104 and forward of the airbag 2302. The spring assembly 2310 includes arod 2312 having the internally threaded apertures 2030 in which thethreaded connector 2028 is received as described above in connectionwith FIG. 28 . Transverse bores 2314 pass through the rod 2312transverse to the rod's longitudinal axis. The rod 2312 includestransverse channels 2316 sized to receive the head of the bolts 2318 toprevent the bolts 2318 from turning. The shaft of the bolts 2318 passthrough apertures 2319 in a U-shaped bracket 2320. The upwardly turnedends of the U-shaped bracket 2320 include apertures 2034 which receivethreaded connectors 2032 as described above in connection with FIG. 28 .The shaft of the bolts 2318 receive a collar 2322. A spring 2324 seatsover the collar 2322. The upper end of the bolt 2318 receives a washer2326 and threadably receives a nut 2328. It should be appreciated thatbecause the rod 2312 is secured to the intermediate subframe 2100B andthe U-shaped bracket 2320 is secured to the upper subframe 2100A, whenthe nut 2327 is tightened onto the bolt 2317 the spring 2325 iscompressed, tending to pivot the intermediate subframe 2100B in aclockwise direction (in the view of FIG. 28 ) about axis passing throughthe threaded connectors 2002 pivotally securing the forward end of theintermediate subframe 2100B to the upper subframe 2100A. Thus, it shouldbe appreciated that the spring assembly 2310 functions to provide a liftforce at the rearward end of the intermediate frame 2100B (and thus tothe lower subframe 2100C and the rear strut subframe 2100D). Bytightening the nuts 2327 onto the bolts 2317 the compression of thesprings 2325 increases the lift force on the intermediate subframe2100B. By loosening the nuts 2327 on the bolts 2317 the amount oflift-force can be decreased. In one embodiment, the amount of lift forceprovided by spring assembly is sufficient to raise the row cleanerwheels 2060-1, 2060-2 out of contact with soil 40. Although the springassembly 2310 is shown with two springs 2325, the spring assembly 2310may be constructed with a single spring 2325 received over a single bolt2317 positioned at the midpoint of the rod 2312. The airbag 2302, on theother hand, applies a downforce on the intermediate subframe 2100B tocounteract the lift force of the spring assembly 2310. By increasing anddecreasing the air pressure in the airbag 2302, causing the airbag 2302to respectively expand and contract, the desired amount of downforceapplied to the gauge wheel 2050 and the row cleaner wheels 2060-1,2060-2 can be achieved.

While the foregoing embodiment of the actuator system 2300 describes anairbag 1302 in combination with a spring assembly 2310, it should beappreciated that the actuator system 2300 may utilize any actuator thatprovides an adjustable downforce and an optional lift force may besuitable. The downforce exerted by the actuator 2302 on the gauge wheel2050 may be controlled by a controller (such as the “controller 300”referenced in U.S. Pat. No. 8,550,020) or by a fluid control port (suchas the “fluid control port 10” described in PCT Publication No.WO2020/056395). The airbag 2302 of each of the row cleaner assemblies2000 of the planter 10 may be controlled on a row-by-row basis, or asgroups by section of the planter 10, or collectively across the entireplanter 10.

The desired amount of downforce may be a function of the soil conditionsand the amount or type of crop residue and the depth at which the rowcleaner wheels 2060 are set for engagement with the soil. For example,in dry soil conditions, more downforce may be desired such that thegauge wheel 2050 will more firmly pack the soil 40 in front of theopening assembly 234 for formation of a better seed trench 38 and toprevent or minimize soil falling into the seed trench 38 before the seedis deposited. Alternatively in wet soil conditions, less downforce maybe desired. A downforce monitoring system (discussed later) may beemployed for determining and regulating the downforce applied by theactuator system 2300.

FIG. 34 is a side elevation of the planter row unit 200 as previouslydescribed above in connection with FIG. 2 , but with another embodimentof a row cleaner assembly designated by reference number 3000. The rowcleaner assembly 3000 is mounted to the toolbar 14 and is positionedforward of the trench opening assembly 234. Again, it should beappreciated that each row unit 200 of the planter 10 would have anassociated row cleaner assembly 3000 longitudinally aligned with therespective trench opening assembly 234 of the row unit 200. In theembodiment shown, the row cleaner assembly 3000 includes a gauge wheel3050 (identified in FIG. 35 ). The row cleaner assembly 3000 extendsrearward of the toolbar 14 and is rigidly mounted to the underside oftoolbar 14 by suitable mounting structure, which may include a mountingplate 3101 and one or more U-bolts 3001 as shown. Alternatively, the rowcleaner assembly 3000 may be mounted to the top side, rear side orforward side of the toolbar 14 by any suitable mounting structure orconnection, including bolted brackets or by welding.

FIG. 34A shows an alternative embodiment of a row cleaner assemblydesignated by reference number 3000A. The embodiment of the row cleanerassembly 3000A is substantially the same as the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 3000 except the embodiment of 3000A does not includethe gauge wheel 3050. Furthermore, the embodiment of 3000A may omit therear strut subframe 3100B (described later).

FIG. 35 is an enlarged rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly3000 shown in FIG. 34 . FIG. 35A is the same view as in FIG. 35 butshows the embodiment of the row cleaner assembly 3000A without the gaugewheel and without the rear strut subframe 3100D (discussed later). Sinceboth embodiments of the row cleaner assembly 3000 and 3000A aresubstantially the same, other than the removal of the gauge wheel inembodiment 3000A (and optionally the rear strut subframe 3100D discussedlater), only the embodiment 3000 is described, recognizing that anyreference to the gauge wheel 3050, the gauge wheel axle 3051 andassociated components would not be applicable to the 3000A embodiment.

FIGS. 36 and 37 are right and left side elevation views, respectively,of the row cleaner assembly 3000. FIGS. 38 and 39 are front and rearelevation views, respectively, and FIGS. 40 and 41 are top and bottomviews, respectively. The row cleaner assembly 3000 includes a frameassembly 3100 supported at its rearward end by a gauge wheel 3050. Rowcleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 are rotatably supported by the frameassembly 3100. Each row cleaner wheel 3060-1, 3060-2 includes radiallyspaced tines 3062 around its circumference. The row cleaner wheels3060-1, 3060-2 are oriented to diverge outwardly and rearwardly suchthat the tines 3062 of the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 interlaceat the forward end as they rotate. In operation, as the planter 10 movesin the forward direction of travel 11, the soil engages with the tines3062, causing the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 to rotate. Due totheir orientation, as the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 rotate, theydirect any crop residue, soil clods or other debris laterally outwardlyto provide a cleaner seed bed for the rearwardly aligned trench openingassembly 234. The gauge wheel 3050 serves to firm the soil 40 that maybe disturbed by row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 before the trench 38is opened by the trench opening assembly 234. Firming the soil with thegauge wheel 3050 may be advantageous in dry soils to prevent soil 40from falling into trench 38.

An actuator system 3300 is positioned within the fame assembly 3100 toprovide an adjustable downforce and optionally a lift force to the gaugewheel 3050 and row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2. In this embodiment,the actuator system 3300 utilizes two airbags 3302 and 3304 (FIG. 45 ),but the actuator system 3300 may utilize any actuator that provides anadjustable downforce and an optional lift force, including pneumaticcylinders, hydraulic cylinders, air bags, and electromechanicalactuators as discussed in more detail later.

FIG. 42 is a rear perspective view of the frame assembly 3100 with thegauge wheel 3050, the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 and the actuatorsystem 3300 removed for clarity. FIG. 43 is a front perspective view ofthe frame assembly 3100 with the gauge wheel 3050 and actuator system3300 and the first row cleaner wheel 3060-1 removed, but showing anexploded view of the second row cleaning wheel 3060-2 and its mountingcomponents. FIG. 44 is an exploded rear perspective view of the frameassembly 3100. Referring to FIGS. 42-44 , the frame assembly 3100includes an upper subframe 3100A, an intermediate subframe 3100B, alower subframe 3100C, a rear strut subframe 3100D, and first and secondlinkages 3200-1, 3200-2. The rear strut subframe 3100D comprises a partof the lower subframe 3100C. FIG. 45 is an exploded front perspectiveview showing lower subframe 3100C and the rear strut subframe 3100D.FIG. 46 shows a perspective view of the intermediate subframe 3100B andthe linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 with the first and second airbags 3302, 3304of the actuator assembly 3300 shown in hidden lines for clarity. Thesubframes 3100A, 3100B, 3100C, 3100D and linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 aredescribed in more detail later.

As best illustrated in FIG. 44 , the intermediate subframe 3100B ispivotally connected at its forward end to the upper subframe 3100A bythreaded connectors 3002 received within aligned apertures 3003, 3004 inthe respective intermediate subframe 3100B and upper subframe 3100A. Thethreaded connectors 3002 and apertures 3003, 3004 may be threaded asshown in the previous embodiments 1000, 2000. Alternatively, as shown,the apertures 2003 in the intermediate subframe 3100B may be squareapertures that receive a square shank portion of the threaded connector3002. The aperture 3004 in the upper subframe 3100A may be sized toreceive a sleeve 3009 and collared bushing 3010 retained by a nut 3011received over the threaded end of the threaded connector 3002. Theintermediate subframe 3100B is pivotally connected at its rearward endby threaded connectors 3006 received within apertures 3007, 3008 in therespective intermediate subframe 3100B and in the lower subframe 3100C.The threaded connectors 3006 and apertures 3007, 3008 may be threaded asshown in the previous embodiments 1000, 2000. Alternatively, as shown,the apertures 3008 in the lower subframe 3100C may be square aperturesthat receive a square shank portion of the threaded connector 3006. Theaperture 3007 in the intermediate subframe 3100B may be sized to receivea sleeve 3009 and collared bushing 3010 retained by a nut 3011 receivedover the threaded end of the threaded connector 3006.

The first and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 are pivotally connected attheir forward end to the upper subframe 3100A by threaded connectors3012 received within aligned apertures 3013, 3014 in the respectivefirst and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 and the upper subframe 3100A.The threaded connectors 3012 and apertures 3013, 3014 may be threaded asshown in the previous embodiments 1000, 2000. Alternatively, as shown,the apertures 3014 in the upper subframe 3100A may be square aperturesthat receive a square shank portion of the threaded connector 3012. Theaperture 3013 in the first and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 may besized to receive a sleeve 3009 and collared bushing 3010 retained by anut 3011 received over the threaded end of the threaded connector 3012.The first and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 are pivotally connected attheir rearward end to the lower subframe 3100C by threaded connectors3016 received within aligned apertures 3017, 3018 in the respectivefirst and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 and lower subframe 3100C. Thethreaded connectors 3016 and apertures 3017, 3018 may be threaded asshown in the previous embodiments 1000, 2000. Alternatively, as shown,the apertures 3017 in the lower subframe 3100C may be square aperturesthat receive a square shank portion of the threaded connector 3016. Theaperture 3018 in the first and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 may besized to receive a sleeve 3009 and collared bushing 3010 retained by anut 3011 received over the threaded end of the threaded connector 3016.

The rear strut subframe 3100D is pivotally connected to the lowersubframe 3100C by threaded connectors 3024 received within alignedapertures 3025, 3026 (see FIG. 45 ) in the rear strut subframe 3100D andthe lower subframe 3100C. As best viewed in FIGS. 43 and 45 , the rearstrut subframe 3100D is also linked with the lower subframe 3100C by thehooked arms 3402 of the depth selector 3400 (discussed later). It shouldbe appreciated that the forward pivotal connections of the uppersubframe 3100A with the intermediate subframe 3100B and the linkages3200-1, 3200-2, together with the rearward pivotal connections of theintermediate subframe 3100B and the linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 with thelower subframe 3100C provides a four bar linkage that permits theintermediate and lower subframes 3100B, 3100C to move vertically withrespect to the upper subframe 3100A rigidly secured to the toolbar 14.It should be apparent that in the 3000A embodiment, the entire rearstrut subframe 3100D may be omitted since its primary purpose is tosupport the gauge wheel 3050 which is not present in the 3000Aembodiment. However, as explained in detail later, the rear strutsubframe 3100D cooperates with the lower subframe 3100C to enable depthselection via the depth selector 3400. Thus, if depth selection isdesired, the embodiment of the row cleaner assembly 3000A may be usedwith the rear strut subframe 3100D, thereby simply omitting the gaugewheel 3050 and the gauge wheel axle bolt 3051.

FIG. 47 shows an exploded front perspective view of the upper subframe3100A. The upper subframe 3100A includes first and second gusset plates3102-1, 3102-2 that extend downwardly from the mounting plate 3101 andare laterally spaced by a front plate 3104. The gusset plates 3102-1,3102-2 include the apertures 3004, 3014 for receiving the threadedconnectors 3002, 3012, respectively, for attaching the intermediatesubframe 3100B and the rails 3200-1, 3200-2 respectively as describedabove in connection with FIG. 44 . The front plate 3104 may include sidetabs 3105 that are received with side tab slots 3106 in the gussetplates 3102-1, 3102-2. The front plate 3104 includes recesses 3107 toaccommodate the insertion of the threaded connectors 3012 into theapertures 3014 in the gusset plates 3102-1, 3102-2. Connecting plates3108 include upper tabs 3109 that are received within tab slots 3110 inthe mounting plate 3101. The connecting plates 3108 also include bottomhooks 3111 that receive and engage with the back edge and recessed areasof the front plate 2004. It should be appreciated that rather than usingtabs and slots connecting the individual parts of the upper subframe3100A, the individual parts of the upper subframe 3100A may be connectedby welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, the upper subframe3100A may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting.

FIG. 48 shows an exploded rear perspective view of the intermediatesubframe 3100B. The intermediate subframe 3100B includes a forward basemember 3120 and a rearward base member 3122 and first and second siderails 3121-1, 3121-2. The base members 3120, 3122 may include side tabs3123 that are received within side tab notches 3124 in the side rails3121-1, 3121-2. It should be appreciated that rather than using tabs andslots connecting the individual parts of the intermediate subframe3100B, the individual parts of the intermediate subframe 3100B may beconnected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, theintermediate subframe 3100B may be fabricated as a single part, such asby casting. The forward base member 3120 includes an aperture 3125through which a nipple of the first airbag 3302 extends and whichreceives a fitting 3126 (FIG. 43 ) that threadably secures the secondairbag 3304 to the forward base member 3120. The rearward base member3122 includes an aperture 3127 through which a nipple of the firstairbag actuator 3302 extends and which receives a fitting 3128 (FIG. 46) that threadably secures the first airbag 3302 to the rearward basemember 3122. Each of the side rails 3121-1, 3122-2 includes the forwardaperture 3003 for receiving the threaded connector 3002 for pivotallysecuring the side rails 3121-1, 3121-2 of the intermediate subframe3100B to the gussets 3012-1, 3012-2 of the upper subframe 3100A asdescribed above in connection with FIG. 44 . Each of the side rails3121-1, 3122-2 includes the rearward aperture 3007 for receiving thethreaded connector 3006 as described above in connection with FIG. 44 .

FIG. 49 shows an exploded rear perspective view of the first and secondlinkages 3200-1, 3200-2. The first and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2may be connected by a forward plate 3202 and a rearward plate 3204. Eachof the forward and rearward plates 3202, 3204 may include side tabs 3203that are received within side tab notches 3205 in the linkages 3200-1,3200-2. Stiffener plates 3206 may be provided to stiffen the forwardplate 3202. The stiffener plates 3206 may include tabs 3207 that arereceived in tab slots 3208 in the forward plate 3202 and the linkages3200-1, 3200-2. It should be appreciated that rather than using tabs andslots connecting the individual parts of the intermediate subframe3100B, the individual parts of the intermediate subframe 3100B may beconnected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, theintermediate subframe 3100B may be fabricated as a single part, such asby casting. The forward plate member 3202 may include an aperture 3210for receiving a threaded connector (not shown) for attaching the firstand second airbag actuators 3302, 3304 thereto (see FIG. 46 ).

FIG. 50 shows an exploded rear perspective view of the lower subframe3100C. The lower subframe 3100C includes first and second row cleanerwheel support arms 3130-1, 3130-2 connected at their forward end by aforward plate 3132. The forward plate 3132 may include side tabs 3133that are received within side tab slots 3134 in the first and second rowcleaner wheel support arms 3130-1, 3130-2. A rear plate 3136 may beprovided to laterally restrain the rearward end of the row cleaner wheelsupport arms 3130-1, 3130-2. The rear plate 3136 may include side tabs3137 that are received within side tab slots 3138 in the row cleanerwheel support arms 3130-1, 3130-2. It should be appreciated that ratherthan using tabs and slots connecting the individual parts of the lowersubframe 3100C, the individual parts of the lower subframe 3100C may beconnected by welding or by bolted connections. Alternatively, the lowersubframe 3100C may be fabricated as a single part, such as by casting.Each of the row cleaner wheel support arm 3130-1, 3130-2 also includesthe opening 3026 that aligns with the aperture 3025 in the rear strutsubframe 3100D for receiving the threaded connector 3024 for pivotallyattaching the lower subframe 3100C to the rear strut subframe 3100D (seeFIG. 45 ). Each row cleaner wheel support arm 3130-1, 3130-2 alsoincludes the apertures 3008, 3017 for receiving the respective threadedconnectors 3006, 3008 of the respective intermediate subframe 3100B andthe linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 as described above in connection with FIG.44 . Each of the first and second row cleaner wheel support arms 3130-1,3130-2 includes a square opening 3135 for receiving a square shankportion of a respective one of the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 3061-1,3061-2 as discussed in more detail below. The forward plate 3132 mayinclude tab slots 3153 for depth selector 3400 discussed later.

FIG. 51 is a rear perspective view of the rear strut subframe 3100D. Therear strut subframe 3100D includes first and second struts 3140-1,3140-2 spaced at their rearward end by a lateral plate 3142. The lateralplate 3142 may include tabs 3143 that are received within slots 3144 ofeach of the first and second struts 3140-1, 3140-2. Alternatively, thelateral plate 3142 may be attached to the struts 3140-1, 3140-2 bywelding or bolted connections. Alternatively, the struts 3140-1, 3140-2and the lateral plate 3142 may be fabricated as a single part, such asby casting. Each of the struts 3140-1, 3140-2 include the aperture 3022for receiving the axle wheel bolt 3051 as described above in connectionwith FIG. 44 . In this embodiment, each of the struts 3140-1, 3140-2include forwardly extending arms 3141-1, 3141-2 joined at their forwardend by a cross member 3152. The cross member 3152 includes an aperture3153 for the depth selector 3400 discussed later.

The rear strut subframe 3100D may include a scraper 3145 to remove soilor debris that may build up on the gauge wheel 3050 during operation.The scraper 3145 may be attached to the lateral plate 3142 between therear struts 3140-1, 3140-2 of the rear strut subframe 3100D and maycomprise a plate having an arcuate edge 3146 that approximates theprofile of the gauge wheel 3050 (see FIG. 35 ). The scraper 3145 may beattached to the lateral plate 3142 with threaded connectors 3148extending through elongated holes 3147 that align with internallythreaded apertures 3149 in the lateral plate 3142. The elongated holes3147 will permit the scraper 3145 to be adjustably positioned relativeto the lateral plate 3142 to vary the distance to the gauge wheel 3050to accommodate different gauge wheel sizes and profiles and to accountfor wear of the gauge wheel tread and the scraper 3145.

Referring to the exploded view of FIG. 45 , a depth selector 3400enables the angle or position of the lower subframe 3100C to beselectively adjusted relative to the rear strut subframe 3100D. Thedepth selector 3400 includes laterally spaced hooked arms 3402-1,3402-2, each having a plurality of notches 3404 formed in their uppersurface. Each of the hooked arms 3402-1, 3402-2 may be attached to thelower subframe 3100C by tabs 3405 received within tab slots 3406 in theforward plate 3132 of the lower subframe 3100C. Alternatively, thehooked arms 3402-1, 3402-2 may be attached to the lower subframe 3100Cby any suitable means such as by welding or bolting. As illustrated inFIG. 43 in combination with FIG. 45 , the hooked arms 3402-1, 3402-2extend over the forward cross member 3152 of the rear strut subframe3100D. Each hooked arm 3402-1, 3402-2 includes a forward abutment 3408and a rearward abutment 3410. Referring to FIG. 43 it should beappreciated that the abutments 3408, 3410 will engage with the forwardcross member 3152 restricting the angle of rotation that the lowersubframe 3100C may pivot about the axis of the threaded connector 3024pivotally connecting the lower subframe 3100C with the rear strutsubframe 3100D. A handle 3412 is attached to a handle shaft 3414. Thehandle shaft 3414 passes between the laterally spaced hooked arms3402-1, 3402-2 and extends through a collar 3415 and through theaperture 3153 in the forward end of the rear strut subframe 3100D. Aspring 3416 is received over the end of the handle shaft 3414 and isretained by a washer 3417 and clip 3418. The spring 3416 biases thehandle 3412 downwardly such that the handle 3412 is received within oneof the plurality of the notches 3404 in the upper surface of the hookedarms 3402-1, 3402-2.

To adjust the angle or position of the lower subframe 3100C with respectto the rear strut subframe (thus increasing or decreasing the depth ofpenetration of the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 into the soil), theoperator grasps the handle 3412 and exerts an upward force causing thespring 3416 to compress, disengaging the handle 3412 from the notches3402. With the handle disengaged from the notches, the operator canpivot the lower subframe 3100C with respect to the rear strut subframe3100D about the axis of the threaded connector 3024 pivotally connectingthe lower subframe 3100C with the rear strut subframe 3100D. Once thelower subframe is at the desired angle or position, the operatorreleases the upward pressure on the handle 3412 and the spring biasreseats the handle 3412 within the corresponding notches 3404, therebysecurely retaining the lower subframe 3100C at the desired angle orposition with respect to the rear strut subframe 3100D corresponding tothe desired row cleaner wheel depth.

Referring to FIG. 43 , the square opening 3135 in each of the rowcleaner wheel support arms 3130-1, 3130-2 is configured to receive asquare shank portion (not shown, but see FIG. 27 as an example) of therow cleaner wheel axle bolts 3061-1, 3061-2. The square opening 3135 andthe square shank portion of the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 3061-1,3061-2 cooperate to rotationally restrain the row cleaner axle bolts3061-1, 3061-2 to the row cleaner wheel support arms 3130-1, 3130-2.Each row cleaner wheel axle bolt 3061-2, 3061-2 extends through acentral opening 3064 within each of the respective first and secondcleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2. A bushing 3065 is received over the endof each row cleaner wheel axle bolts 3061-2, 3061-2 and the bushing isreceived within a hub 3070 having a central opening 3071. The hub 3070is secured to the respective first and second row cleaner wheels 3060-1,3060-2 by nuts 3072 threadably received over threaded connectors 3074which extend through apertures 3066 in the row cleaner wheels 3060-1,3060-2 and through aligned holes 3073 in the hub 3070. A lug nut 3075threadably receives the end of the wheel axle bolts 3061-2, 3061-2thereby axially restraining the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 ontothe respective row cleaner wheel axle bolts 3061-2, 3061-2, while thebushing 3065 permits the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 to freelyrotate about the respective row cleaner wheel axle bolts 3061-2, 3061-2.A spacer (not shown) may be provided over the row cleaner axle bolts3061-1, 3061-2 to position the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2outwardly away from the row cleaner wheel support arms 3130-1, 3130-2.FIG. 43 also shows a scraper 3076 that may be provided over the rowcleaner axle bolts 3061-1, 3061-2 to scrape dirt or mud from the rowcleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 as they rotate.

Referring to FIGS. 35 and 44 , the gauge wheel axle bolt 3051 extendsthrough the aperture 3022 in the rear strut subframe 3100D and throughthe hub 3052 (FIG. 35 ) of the gauge wheel 3050. Spacer bushings 3053(FIG. 44 ) may be disposed on the gauge wheel axle bolt 3051 on eachside of the hub 3052 to keep the gauge wheel 3050 centered between thestruts 3040-1, 3040-2. A nut 3054 threads onto the end of the gaugewheel axle bolt 3051 securing the gauge wheel 3050 to the rear strutsubframe 3100D.

Referring to FIGS. 44 and 46 , the actuator system 3300 may comprisefirst and second airbags 3302, 3304 disposed within the intermediatesubframe 3100B and cooperating with the linkages 3200-1, 3200-2. Thefirst airbag 3302, rearward of the second airbag 3304, is connected atits rearward end to the rearward plate 3122 of the intermediate subframe3100B and is connected at its forward end to the lateral plate 3202between the first and second linkages 3200-1, 3200-2. The second airbag3404 is connected at its rearward end to the same lateral plate 3202 andis connected at its forward end to forward plate 3120 of theintermediate subframe 3100B. As schematically illustrated in FIGS. 52A,as the pressure in the first or rearward airbag 3302 is increasedcausing it to expand, and causing the second or forward airbag 3404 tocollapse, a downforce and downward rotational movement will be impartedas indicated by the directional arrows in FIG. 52A forcing the lowersubframe 3100C and rear strut subframe 3100D downwardly (as representedby the phantom lines relative to the solid lines) causing the gaugewheel 3050 and the row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 to move downwardlyor exerting a greater downforce on the soil 40. Conversely, asschematically illustrated in FIGS. 52B, as the pressure in the second orforward airbag 3404 is increased causing it to expand, and causing thefirst or rearward airbag 3302 to collapse, a lift force and upwardrotational movement will be will be imparted as indicated by thedirectional arrows in FIG. 52B forcing the lower subframe 3100C and rearstrut subframe 3100D upwardly (as represented by the phantom linesrelative to the solid lines) causing the gauge wheel 3050 and the rowcleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 to move upwardly or exerting lessdownforce on the soil 40. Thus, it should be appreciated by increasingand decreasing the air pressure in the first and second airbags 3302,3304 causing them to respectively expand and contract, the desiredamount of downforce applied to the gauge wheel 3050 and the row cleanerwheels 3060-1, 3060-2 can be achieved.

Rather than airbags for the actuator system 3300, the first and secondactuators 3302, 3304 may be any type of single acting or dual actingactuators that may be configured to provide an adjustable downforce andan optional lift force, including pneumatic cylinders, hydrauliccylinders, air bags, and electromechanical actuators. In still otherembodiments, a single acting actuator, such as an airbag and a forwardspring assembly similar to the spring assembly 2300 described above inconnection with the second row cleaner assembly embodiment 2000 may beutilized. The downforce exerted by the actuator system 3300 on the gaugewheel 3050 and row cleaner wheels 3060-1, 3060-2 may be controlled by acontroller (such as the “controller 300” referenced in U.S. Pat. No.8,550,020) or by a fluid control port (such as the “fluid control port10” described in PCT Publication No. WO2300/056395). The actuator system3300 of each of the row cleaner assemblies 3000 of the planter 10 may becontrolled on a row-by-row basis, or as groups by section of the planter10, or collectively across the entire planter 10.

The desired amount of downforce may be a function of the soil conditionsand the amount or type of crop residue and the depth at which the rowcleaner wheels 3060 are set for engagement with the soil. For example,in dry soil conditions, more downforce may be desired such that thegauge wheel 3050 will more firmly pack the soil 40 in front of theopening assembly 234 for formation of a better seed trench 38 and toprevent or minimize soil falling into the seed trench 38 before the seedis deposited. Alternatively in wet soil conditions, less downforce maybe desired. A downforce monitoring system (discussed later) may beemployed for determining and regulating the downforce applied by theactuator 3300.

FIG. 53 is a side elevation of the planter row unit 200 as previouslydescribed above in connection with FIG. 2 , but with another embodimentof a row cleaner assembly designated by reference number 4000. The rowcleaner assembly 4000 is mounted to the toolbar 14 and is positionedforward of the trench opening assembly 234. Again, it should beappreciated that each row unit 200 of the planter 10 would have anassociated row cleaner assembly 4000 longitudinally aligned with therespective trench opening assembly 234 of the row unit 200. In theembodiment shown, the row cleaner assembly 4000 includes a gauge wheel4050 (identified in FIG. 54 ). The row cleaner assembly 4000 extendsrearward of the toolbar 14 and is rigidly mounted to the forward side oftoolbar 14 by suitable mounting structure, which may include a pair ofmounting brackets 4101 that bolt with plates or gussets secured to thetoolbar 14. Alternatively, the row cleaner assembly 4000 may be mountedto the top side, rear side or below side of the toolbar 14 by anysuitable mounting structure or connection, including bolted brackets orby welding.

FIG. 53A shows an alternative embodiment of a row cleaner assemblydesignated by reference number 4000A. The embodiment of the row cleanerassembly 4000A is substantially the same as the embodiment of the rowcleaner assembly 4000 except the embodiment of 4000A does not includethe gauge wheel 4050. Furthermore, the embodiment of 4000A may omit therear strut subframe 4100B (described later).

FIG. 54 is an enlarged rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly4000 shown in FIG. 53 . FIG. 54A is the same view as in FIG. 54 butshows the embodiment of the row cleaner assembly 4000A without the gaugewheel 4050 and without the rear strut subframe 4100D (discussed later).Since both embodiments of the row cleaner assembly 4000 and 4000A aresubstantially the same, other than the removal of the gauge wheel inembodiment 4000A (and optionally the rear strut subframe 4100D discussedlater), only the embodiment 4000 is described, recognizing that anyreference to the gauge wheel 4050, the gauge wheel axle 4051 andassociated components would not be applicable to the 4000A embodiment.

FIGS. 55 and 56 are right and left side elevation views, respectively,of the row cleaner assembly 4000. FIGS. 57 and 58 are front and rearelevation views, respectively, and FIGS. 59 and 60 are top and bottomviews, respectively. The row cleaner assembly 4000 includes a frameassembly 4100 supported at its rearward end by a gauge wheel 4050. Rowcleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 are rotatably supported by the frameassembly 4100. Each row cleaner wheel 4060-1, 4060-2 includes radiallyspaced tines 4062 around its circumference. The row cleaner wheels4060-1, 4060-2 are oriented to diverge outwardly and rearwardly suchthat the tines 4062 of the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 interlaceat the forward end as they rotate. In operation, as the planter 10 movesin the forward direction of travel 11, the soil engages with the tines4062, causing the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 to rotate. Due totheir orientation, as the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 rotate, theydirect any crop residue, soil clods or other debris laterally outwardlyto provide a cleaner seed bed for the rearwardly aligned trench openingassembly 234. The gauge wheel 4050 serves to firm the soil 40 that maybe disturbed by row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 before the trench 38is opened by the trench opening assembly 234. Firming the soil with thegauge wheel 4050 may be advantageous in dry soils to prevent soil 40from falling into trench 38.

An actuator system 4300 is positioned within the fame assembly 4100 toprovide an adjustable downforce and optionally a lift force to the gaugewheel 4050 and row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2. In this embodiment,the actuator system 4300 utilizes two airbags 4302 and 4304 (FIG. 63 ),but the actuator system 4300 may utilize any actuator that provides anadjustable downforce and an optional lift force, including pneumaticcylinders, hydraulic cylinders, air bags, and electromechanicalactuators as discussed in more detail later.

FIG. 61 is a rear perspective view of the frame assembly 4100 with thegauge wheel 4050, the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 removed forclarity. FIG. 62 is a front perspective view of the frame assembly 4100with the gauge wheel 4050 and actuator system 4300 and the first rowcleaner wheel 4060-1 removed, but showing an exploded view of the secondrow cleaner wheel 4060-2 and its mounting components. FIG. 63 is anexploded rear perspective view of the frame assembly 4100. Referring toFIGS. 61-64 , the frame assembly 4100 includes an upper subframe 4100A,an intermediate subframe 4100B, a lower subframe 4100C, a rear strutsubframe 4100D, and first and second linkages 4200-1, 4200-2. The rearstrut subframe 4100D comprises a part of the lower subframe 4100C. FIG.64 is an exploded front perspective view showing lower subframe 4100Cand the rear strut subframe 4100D. FIG. 65 shows a perspective view ofthe intermediate subframe 3100B and the linkages 3200-1, 32002 with thefirst and second airbags 4302, 4304 of the actuator assembly 4300. Thesubframes 4100A, 4100B, 4100C, 4100D and linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 aredescribed in more detail later.

As best illustrated in FIG. 63 , the intermediate subframe 4100B ispivotally connected at its forward end to the upper subframe 4100A bythreaded connectors 4002 received within aligned apertures 4003, 4004 inthe respective intermediate subframe 4100B and upper subframe 4100A. Thethreaded connectors 4002 and apertures 4003, 4004 may be threaded asshown in the previous embodiments 1000, 2000. Alternatively, as shown,the apertures 4003 in the intermediate subframe 4100B may be squareapertures that receive a square shank portion of the threaded connector4002. The aperture 4004 in the upper subframe 4100A may be sized toreceive a collared bushing 4010 retained by a nut 4011 received over thethreaded end of the threaded connector 4002. The intermediate subframe4100B is pivotally connected at its rearward end by threaded connectors4006 received within apertures 4007, 4008 in the respective intermediatesubframe 4100B and in the lower subframe 4100C. The threaded connectors4006 and apertures 4007, 4008 may be threaded as shown in the previousembodiments 1000, 2000. Alternatively, as shown, the apertures 4007 inthe intermediate subframe 4100B may be square apertures that receive asquare shank portion of the threaded connector 4006. The aperture 4008in the lower subframe 4100C may be sized to receive a collared bushing4010 retained by a nut 4011 received over the threaded end of thethreaded connector 4006.

The first and second linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 are pivotally connected attheir forward end to the upper subframe 4100A by threaded connectors4012 received within aligned apertures 4013, 4014 in the respectivefirst and second linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 and the upper subframe 4100A.The threaded connectors 4012 and apertures 4013, 4014 may be threaded asshown in the previous embodiments 1000, 2000. Alternatively, as shown,the apertures 4013 in the linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 may be squareapertures that receive a square shank portion of the threaded connector4012. The aperture 4014 in the upper subframe 4100A may be sized toreceive a collared bushing 4010 retained by a nut 4011 received over thethreaded end of the threaded connector 4012. The first and secondlinkages 4200-1, 4200-2 are pivotally connected at their rearward end tothe lower subframe 4100C by threaded connectors 4016 received withinaligned apertures 4017, 4018 in the respective first and second linkages4200-1, 4200-2 and lower subframe 4100C. The threaded connectors 4016and apertures 4017, 4018 may be threaded as shown in the previousembodiments 1000, 2000. Alternatively, as shown, the apertures 4017 inthe linkages 4200-1, 4300-2 may be square apertures that receive asquare shank portion of the threaded connector 4016. The aperture 4018in the lower subframe 4100C may be sized to receive a collared bushing4010 retained by a nut 4011 received over the threaded end of thethreaded connector 4016.

The rear strut subframe 4100D is pivotally connected to the lowersubframe 4100C by threaded connectors 4024 received within alignedapertures 4025, 4026 (see FIG. 63 ) in the respective rear strutsubframe 4100D and the lower subframe 4100C. As best viewed in FIGS. 62and 64 , the rear strut subframe 4100D is also linked with the lowersubframe 4100C by the depth selector 4400 (discussed later). It shouldbe appreciated that the forward pivotal connections of the uppersubframe 4100A with the intermediate subframe 4100B and the linkages4200-1, 4200-2, together with the rearward pivotal connections of theintermediate subframe 4100B and the linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 with thelower subframe 4100C provides a four bar linkage that permits theintermediate and lower subframes 4100B, 4100C to move vertically withrespect to the upper subframe 4100A rigidly secured to the toolbar 14.It should be apparent that in the 4000A embodiment, the entire rearstrut subframe 4100D may be omitted since its primary purpose is tosupport the gauge wheel 4050 which is not present in the 4000Aembodiment. However, as explained in detail later, the rear strutsubframe 4100D cooperates with the lower subframe 4100C to enable depthselection via the depth selector 4400. Thus, if depth selection isdesired, the embodiment of the row cleaner assembly 4000A may be usedwith the rear strut subframe 4100D, thereby simply omitting the gaugewheel 4050 and the gauge wheel axle bolt 4051.

FIG. 66 shows a front perspective view of the upper subframe 4100A. Inthis embodiment, the upper subframe 4100A is shown as being a unitarycasted member, but it may be made of individual parts connected by tabsand slots as described in connection with the embodiments 1000, 2000,3000 above, or the individual parts may be joined by welding or bybolted connections. The upper subframe 4100A includes first and secondgusset plates 4102-1, 4102-2 that extend downwardly from a top plate orsurface 4101 and are laterally spaced by a front plate or surface 4104.The gusset plates 4102-1, 4102-2 include the apertures 4004, 4014 forreceiving the threaded connectors 4002, 4012, respectively, forattaching the intermediate subframe 4100B and the rails 4200-1, 4200-2respectively as described above in connection with FIG. 63 .

FIGS. 63 and 68 show rear and front perspective views respectively ofthe intermediate subframe 4100B. Again, in this embodiment, theintermediate subframe 4100B is shown as being a unitary casted member,but it may be made of individual parts connected by tabs and slots asdescribed in connection with the embodiments 1000, 2000, 3000 above, orthe individual parts may be joined by welding or by bolted connections.The intermediate subframe 4100B includes a forward base member 4120 anda rearward base member 4122 and first and second side rails 4121-1,4121-2. The forward base member 4120 includes an aperture 4125 throughwhich a nipple of the first airbag 4302 extends and which receives afitting 4126 (FIG. 62 ) that threadably secures the second airbag 4304to the forward base member 4120. The rearward base member 4122 includesan aperture 4127 through which a nipple of the first airbag 4302 extendsand which receives a fitting 4128 (FIG. 65 ) that threadably secures thefirst airbag 4302 to the rearward base member 4122. Each of the siderails 4121-1, 4122-2 includes the forward aperture 4003 for receivingthe threaded connector 4002 for pivotally securing the side rails4121-1, 4121-2 of the intermediate subframe 4100B to the gussets 4102-1,4102-2 of the upper subframe 4100A as described above in connection withFIG. 63 . Each of the side rails 4121-1, 4122-2 includes the rearwardaperture 4007 for receiving the threaded connector 4006 as describedabove in connection with FIG. 63 .

FIGS. 63 and 67 show rear and front perspective views respectively ofthe first and second linkages 4200-1, 4200-2. Again, in this embodiment,the first and second linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 are shown as being joinedas a unitary member, such as by casting, but the linkages may be made ofindividual parts connected by tabs and slots as described in connectionwith the embodiment 3000 above, or the individual parts may be joined bywelding or by bolted connections. The first and second linkages 4200-1,4200-2 may be connected by a forward plate 4202. The forward plate mayinclude an aperture 4203 for receiving a threaded connector (not shown)for attaching the forward and rearward ends, respectively of the firstand second airbags 4302, 4304 to the forward plate . One or more lateralmembers 4204 may connect between the first and second linkages 4200-1,4200-2 to provide structural rigidity. Each of the linkages 4200-1,4200-2 includes the forward aperture 4013 for receiving the threadedconnector 4012 for pivotally securing the linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 to thegussets 4102-1, 4102-2 of the upper subframe 4100A as described above inconnection with FIG. 63 . Each of the linkages 4200-1, 4200-2 includesthe rearward aperture 4017 for receiving the threaded connector 4016 asdescribed above in connection with FIG. 63 .

FIG. 69 shows front perspective view of the lower subframe 4100C. Again,in this embodiment, the lower subframe 4100C is shown as being a unitarycasted member, but it may be made of individual parts connected by tabsand slots as described in connection with the embodiments 1000, 2000,3000 above, or the individual parts may be joined by welding or bybolted connections. The lower subframe 4100C includes first and secondrow cleaner wheel support arms 4130-1, 4130-2 connected at their forwardend. A rear lateral member 4134 may extend between the rearward ends ofthe support arms 4120-1, 4120-2 to provide structural rigidity. Anarched panel 4138 extends across the row cleaner wheel support arms4130-1, 4130-2 toward their forward end. The arched panel 4138 includesa notched opening 4402 discussed in more detail later in connection withthe description of the depth adjuster 4400. Each of the row cleanerwheel support arm 4130-1, 4130-2 also includes the opening 4026 thataligns with the aperture 4025 in the rear strut subframe 4100D forreceiving a pin 4024 for pivotally attaching the lower subframe 4100C tothe rear strut subframe 4100D (see FIG. 64 ). Each row cleaner wheelsupport arm 4130-1, 4130-2 also includes the apertures 4008, 4018 forreceiving the respective threaded connectors 4006, 4016 for connectingthe respective intermediate subframe 4100B and the linkages 4200-1,4200-2 as described above in connection with FIG. 63 . Each of the firstand second row cleaner wheel support arms 4130-1, 4130-2 an apertures4135 for receiving the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 4061-1, 4061-2. Aplurality of apertures 4135 spaced along the row cleaner wheel supportarms 4130-1, 4130-2 may be provided to permit the row cleaner wheels tobe positioned forwardly or rearwardly as desired depending on the sizeor configuration of the row cleaner wheels. In one embodiment, as bestshown in FIG. 62 , oversized rectangular openings 4155 may be formed orfabricated in the row cleaner wheel support arms 4130-1, 4130-2 toreceive rectangular beveled washers 4156 having the aperture 4135therein to receive the row cleaner wheel axle bolt 4060-1, 4060-2. Thebeveled washers 4156 may have different beveled pitches that may beoriented within the rectangular openings to provide different tiltangles (e.g., pitch, roll or yaw) for the row cleaner wheels dependingon field conditions.

FIG. 70 is a rear perspective view of the rear strut subframe 4100D.Again, in this embodiment, the rear strut subframe 4100D is shown asbeing a unitary casted member, but it may be made of individual partsconnected by tabs and slots as described in connection with theembodiments 1000, 2000, 3000 above, or the individual parts may bejoined by welding or by bolted connections. The rear strut subframe4100D includes first and second struts 4140-1, 4140-2. A lateral member4142 may extend between the struts 4140-1, 4140-2. Each of the struts4140-1, 4140-2 include the aperture 4022 for receiving the axle wheelbolt 4051 as described above in connection with FIG. 63 . In thisembodiment, each of the struts 4140-1, 4140-2 include forwardlyextending arms 4141-1, 4141-2 joined at their forward end bylongitudinally spaced first and cross members 4152, 4154. The firstcross member 4152 includes a first aperture 4153 and the second crossmember 4154 includes a second aperture 4155 that is longitudinallyaligned with the first aperture 4153. The apertures 4153, 4155 areconfigured to receive the depth selector 4400 discussed later.

The rear strut subframe 4100D may include a scraper 4145 to remove soilor debris that may build up on the gauge wheel 4050 during operation.The scraper 4145 may be attached to the lateral member 4142 between thestruts 4140-1, 4140-2 and may comprise a plate having an arcuate edge4146 that approximates the profile of the gauge wheel 4050 (see FIG. 58). The scraper 4145 may be attached to the lateral member 4142 with abolt 4148 extending through an aperture 4149 in the lateral member 4142and through an elongated hole in the scraper 4147 and secured by a nut4150. The elongated hole 4147 permits the scraper 4145 to be adjustablypositioned relative to the lateral plate 4142 to vary the distance tothe gauge wheel 4050 to accommodate different gauge wheel sizes andprofiles and to account for wear of the gauge wheel tread and thescraper 4145.

Referring to the exploded view of FIG. 64 , a depth selector 4400enables the angle or position of the lower subframe 4100C to beselectively adjusted relative to the rear strut subframe 4100D. Thedepth selector 4400 includes a handle 4404 attached to a base 4406. Ashaft 4408 extends downwardly from the base 4406. The base 4406 alsoincludes downwardly extending laterally spaced pegs 4410 that seatwithin the notches of the notched opening 4402 in the arched panel 4138of the lower subframe 4100C. The shaft 4408 extends through the notchedopening 4402 and through the first aperture 4153 in the first and secondcross members 4152 and seats in the second aperture 4155 in the secondcross member 4154 of the rear strut subframe 4100D. A spring (not shown)is retained on the shaft 4408 between the first and second cross members4152, 4154 of the rear strut subframe 4100D. To adjust the angle orposition of the lower subframe 3100C with respect to the rear strutsubframe 4100D (thus increasing or decreasing the depth of penetrationof the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 into the soil), the operatorgrasps the handle 4404 and exerts an upward force causing the spring tocompress, disengaging the pegs 4410 from the notches of the notchedopening 4402. With the pegs 4410 disengaged from the notches, theoperator can pivot the lower subframe 4100C with respect to the rearstrut subframe 4100D about the axis of the pins 4024 pivotally couplingthe lower subframe 4100C with the rear strut subframe 4100D. Once thelower subframe 4100C is at the desired angle or position, the operatorreleases the upward pressure on the handle 4404 and the spring biasreseats the pegs 4410 within the notches of the notched opening 4402,thereby securely retaining the lower subframe 4100C at the desired angleor position with respect to the rear strut subframe 4100D correspondingto the desired row cleaner wheel depth.

Referring to FIG. 62 , the first and second row cleaner wheels 4060-1,4060-2 are respectively secured to the first and second row cleanerwheel support arms 4030-1, 4030-2 of the lower subframe 4100C with a rowcleaner wheel axle bolt 4061-2, 4061-2. Each row cleaner wheel axle bolt4061-2, 4061-2 extends through a central opening 4064 within each of therespective first and second cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2. A bushing4065 is received over the end of each row cleaner wheel axle bolts4061-2, 4061-2 and the bushing is received within a hub 4070 having acentral opening 4071. The hub 4070 is secured to the respective firstand second row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 by nuts 4072 threadablyreceived over threaded connectors 4074 which extend through apertures4066 in the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 and through aligned holes4073 in the hub 4070. A nut 4075 on the back side the row cleaner wheelsupport arms 4030-1, 4030-2 receives the end of the wheel axle bolts4061-2, 4061-2 thereby axially restraining the row cleaner wheels4060-1, 4060-2 onto the respective row cleaner wheel axle bolts 4061-2,4061-2, while the bushing 4065 permits the row cleaner wheels 4060-1,4060-2 to freely rotate about the respective row cleaner wheel axlebolts 4061-2, 4061-2. A spacer 4063 and washers may be provided over therow cleaner axle bolts 4061-1, 4061-2 to position the row cleaner wheels4060-1, 4060-2 outwardly away from the row cleaner wheel support arms4130-1, 4130-2. FIG. 62 also shows a scraper 4076 that may be providedover the row cleaner axle bolts 4061-1, 4061-2 to scrape dirt or mudfrom the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 as they rotate.

Referring to FIGS. 54 and 61 , the gauge wheel axle bolt 4051 extendsthrough the aperture 4022 in the rear strut subframe 4100D and throughthe hub of the gauge wheel 4050. Spacer bushings 4053 (FIG. 61 ) may bedisposed on the gauge wheel axle bolt 4051 on each side of the hub tokeep the gauge wheel 4050 centered between the struts 4040-1, 4040-2. Anut 4054 threads onto the end of the gauge wheel axle bolt 4051 securingthe gauge wheel 4050 to the rear strut subframe 4100D.

Referring to FIGS. 63 and 65 , the actuator system 4300 may comprisefirst and second airbags 4302, 4304 disposed within the intermediatesubframe 4100B and cooperating with the linkages 4200-1, 4200-2. Thefirst airbag 4302, rearward of the second airbag 4304, is connected atits rearward end to the rearward plate 4122 of the intermediate subframe4100B and is connected at its forward end to the lateral member 4202between the first and second linkages 4200-1, 4200-2. The second airbag4304 is connected at its rearward end to the same lateral member 4202and is connected at its forward end to forward plate 4120 (FIG. 68 ) ofthe intermediate subframe 4100B. The operation of the actuator system4300 with respect to exerting down force and lift force to the gaugewheel 4050 and the row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 operates insubstantially the same manner as explained above in connection with theembodiment of the row cleaner assembly 3000 described above withreference to FIGS. 52A and 52B and therefore it will not be repeatedhere.

Rather than airbags for the actuator system 4300, the first and secondactuators 4302, 4304 may be any type of single acting or dual actingactuators that may be configured to provide an adjustable downforce andan optional lift force, including pneumatic cylinders, hydrauliccylinders, air bags, and electromechanical actuators. In still otherembodiments, a single acting actuator, such as an airbag and a forwardspring assembly similar to the spring assembly 2300 described above inconnection with the second row cleaner assembly embodiment 2000 may beutilized. The downforce exerted by the actuator system 4300 on the gaugewheel 4050 and row cleaner wheels 4060-1, 4060-2 may be controlled by acontroller (such as the “controller 300” referenced in U.S. Pat. No.8,550,020) or by a fluid control port (such as the “fluid control port10” described in PCT Publication No. WO2300/056395). The actuator system4300 of each of the row cleaner assemblies 4000 of the planter 10 may becontrolled on a row-by-row basis, or as groups by section of the planter10, or collectively across the entire planter 10.

The desired amount of downforce may be a function of the soil conditionsand the amount or type of crop residue and the depth at which the rowcleaner wheels 4060 are set for engagement with the soil. For example,in dry soil conditions, more downforce may be desired such that thegauge wheel 4050 will more firmly pack the soil 40 in front of theopening assembly 234 for formation of a better seed trench 38 and toprevent or minimize soil falling into the seed trench 38 before the seedis deposited. Alternatively in wet soil conditions, less downforce maybe desired. A downforce monitoring system (discussed later) may beemployed for determining and regulating the downforce applied by theactuator system 4300.

Alternative Mounting Arrangements

FIG. 71 illustrates an alternative mounting arrangement that may beutilized with any of the embodiments of the row cleaner assemblies 1000,1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000, 4000A described above. Instead ofmounting the row cleaner assemblies 1000, 1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000,3000A, 4000, 4000A to the toolbar 14 as shown in FIGS. 2, 2A, 18, 18A,34, 34A, 53, 53A, the row cleaner assemblies 1000, 1000A, 2000, 2000A,3000, 3000A, 4000 or 4000A may be mounted to the row unit frame shank254 or to other structural members of the row unit frame 210 with amounting bracket 220 as shown in FIG. 71 . Although FIG. 71 is shownusing the embodiment of the row cleaner assembly 1000, the same orsimilar mounting structure as recognized by those of skill in the artwould be suitable for all of the embodiments of the row cleanerassemblies 1000, 1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000, 4000A. Thus,rather than including separate drawing figures for each of the rowcleaner assembly embodiments to which this alternative mountingarrangement may be adapted, FIG. 71 includes reference numberscorresponding to each of the row cleaner assemblies 1000, 1000A, 2000,2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000, 4000A to represent that each of thoseembodiments may be mounted using the mounting bracket 220.

FIG. 72 illustrates another alternative embodiment that may be utilizedwith any of the embodiments of the row cleaner assemblies 1000, 1000A,2000, 2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000, 4000A described above. In thisarrangement a row cleaner assembly is designated generally by referencenumber 5000 and is shown as being similar to the row cleaner assembly2000, in that it utilizes the same rear strut subframe 2100D, lowersubframe 2100C, gauge wheel 2050 and row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2as the row cleaner embodiment 2000. However, in this embodiment, theupper subframe 2100A, the intermediate subframe 2100B, the linkages2200-1, 2200-2 are removed and replaced with a parallel arm linkage5002. The parallel arm linkage 5002 is pivotally connect at its rearwardend to a row unit bracket 5004 attached to the row unit frame 210. Theforward end of the parallel arm linkage 5002 is pivotally attached tothe rear strut subframe 2100D and to the lower subframe 2100C, at thesame point as the intermediate subframe 2100B and linkages 2200-1,2200-2 would have been pivotally connected in embodiment 2000. Theactuator system 2300 is removed and replaced with the actuator system5300 connected between a bracket member 5006 and the parallel armlinkage 5002 to provide the desired downforce and optional lift force tothe gauge wheel 2050 and row cleaner wheels 2060-1, 2060-2. The actuatorsystem 5300 may utilize any actuator that provides an adjustabledownforce and an optional lift force, including pneumatic cylinders,hydraulic cylinders, air bags, and electromechanical actuators. Thedownforce and optional lift force exerted by the actuator system 5300may be controlled by a controller (such as the “controller 300”referenced in U.S. Pat. No. 8,550,020) or by a fluid control port (suchas the “fluid control port 10” described in PCT Publication No.WO2020/056395). The actuators comprising the actuator system 5300 may becontrolled on a row-by-row basis, or as groups by section of the planter10, or collectively across the entire planter 10.

Although not separately illustrated, the same or a substantially similarmodifications may be used with each of the row unit assemblies 1000,1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000, 4000A. Rather than including aseparate drawing figure for each of the row cleaner assembly embodimentsto which this alternative embodiment 5000 may be utilized, FIG. 72includes reference numbers corresponding to each of the row cleanerassemblies 1000, 1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000, 4000A torepresent that each of those embodiments may be adapted to utilize thealternative embodiment 5000 as described and illustrated in FIG. 72 .For example, utilizing the row unit assembly 1000 or 1000A, the uppersubframe 1100A, intermediate subframe 1100B, linkages 1200-1, 1200-2,may be removed and replaced with the parallel arm linkage 5002 andactuator system 1300 may be removed and replaced by the actuator system5300 as described in the paragraph above. Similarly, utilizing the rowunit assembly 3000, the intermediate subframe 3100B, linkages 3200-1,3200-2 may be removed and replaced with the parallel arm linkage 5002mounted to the lower subframe 3100C) and actuator system 3300 may bereplaced by the actuator system 5300 as described in the paragraphabove. Similarly, utilizing the row unit assembly 3000A (i.e., withoutthe gauge wheel 3050), the upper subframe 3100A, intermediate subframe3100B, linkages 3200-1, 3200-2 (and optionally the rear strut subframe3100D) may be removed and replaced with the parallel arm linkage 5002mounted to the lower subframe 3100C and the actuator system 3300 may bereplaced with the actuator system 5300 as described in the paragraphabove. Likewise, the utilizing the row unit assembly 4000 the uppersubframe 4100A, intermediate subframe 4100B and linkages 4200-1, 4200-2may be removed and replaced with the parallel arm linkage 5002 mountedto the lower subframe 4100C) and actuator system 4300 may be replaced bythe actuator system 5300 as described above. Similarly, utilizing therow unit assembly 4000A (i.e., without the gauge wheel 4050), the uppersubframe 4100A, intermediate subframe 4100B, linkages 4200-1, 4200-2(and optionally the rear strut subframe 4100D) may be removed andreplaced with the parallel arm linkage 5002 mounted to the lowersubframe 4100C and the actuator system 4300 may be replaced with theactuator system 5300.

Third Row Cleaning Wheel Assembly

FIGS. 73-80 illustrate another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly 6000incorporating an embodiment of a third row cleaner wheel assembly 6010.Although FIGS. 73-79 show the row cleaner assembly 6000 utilizing theembodiment of the row cleaner assembly 4000, it should be appreciatedthat any of the other embodiments of the row cleaner assemblies 1000,1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000A, 5000 as previously described maybe configured to incorporate a third row cleaner wheel assembly 6010.Thus, rather than including separate sets of drawing figures for each ofthe row cleaner assembly embodiments, FIGS. 73-80 include referencenumbers corresponding to each of the row cleaner assembly frames 1100,2100, 3100, 4100, their respective components that may be adapted toinclude the third row cleaner wheel assembly 6010.

FIG. 73 is a rear perspective view of the row cleaner assembly 6000incorporating an embodiment of a third row cleaner wheel assembly 6010.FIG. 74 is a front perspective view of the row cleaner assembly 6000 ofFIG. 73 . FIGS. 75 and 76 are right and left side elevation views,respectively, of the row cleaner assembly 6000 of FIG. 73 . FIGS. 77 and78 are top and bottom plan views, respectively, of the row cleanerassembly 6000 of FIG. 73 . FIG. 79 is an exploded right frontperspective view of the row cleaner assembly 6000 of FIG. 73 . FIG. 80is an exploded left front perspective view of the row cleaner assembly6000 of FIG. 73 .

Referring to FIGS. 79 and 80 , a mounting bar 6080 is configured tomount to the lower subframe 1100C, 2100C, 3100C, 4100C with threadedconnectors 6081 extending through apertures 6082 in the mounting bar6080 which align with the apertures 1035, 2025, 3025, 4035 in therespective row cleaner wheel support arms 1030-2, 2030-2, 3030-2,4030-2. Nuts 6083 on the back side of the lower subframe 1100C, 2100C,3100C, 4100C receive the threaded connectors 6081 securing the mountingbar 6080 to the lower subframe 1100C, 2100C, 3100C, 4100C. The mountingbar 6080 includes a rearward aperture 6084 for mounting the second rowcleaner wheel 1060-2, 2060-2, 3060-2, 4060-2 to the mounting bar 6080via the second row cleaner axle bolt 1061-2, 2061-2, 3061-2, 4061-2 inthe same manner as previously described when mounting the second rowcleaner wheel 1060-2, 2060-2, 3060-2, 4060-2 to the row cleaner wheelsupport arms 1030-2, 2030-2, 3030-2, 4030-2 of the respective lowersubframe 1100C, 2100C, 3100C, 4100C. In alternative embodiments, themounting bar 6080 may include an enlarged aperture 6086 for aligningwith and receiving a bushing for securing the second row cleaner wheel1060-2, 2060-2, 3060-2, 4060-2 to the row cleaner wheel support arms1030-2, 2030-2, 3030-2, 4030-2 of the respective lower subframe 1100C,2100C, 3100C, 4100C. The mounting bar 6080 includes an aperture 6086,which may be an elongated aperture, through which the third row cleanerwheel axle bolt 6061 extends. The third wheel axle bolt 6061 extendsthrough a central opening 6064 in the third row cleaner wheel 6060. Abushing 6065 is received over the end of the third row cleaner wheelaxle bolt 6061 and the bushing 6065 is received within a hub 6070 havinga central opening 6071. The hub 6070 is secured to the third row cleanerwheel 6060 by nuts 6072 threadably received over threaded connectors6074 which extend through apertures 6066 in the third row cleaner wheel6060 and through aligned holes 6073 in the hub 6070. A nut 6075 on theback side the mounting bar 6080 receives the end of the third row wheelcleaner wheel axle bolt 6061 thereby axially restraining the third rowcleaner wheel 6060 onto the mounting bar 6080, while the bushing 6065permits the third row cleaner wheels 6060 to freely rotate about therespective row cleaner wheel axle bolt 6061. A spacer and washers (notshown) may be provided over the row cleaner axle bolt 6061 to positionthe third row cleaner wheel 6060 outwardly away from the mounting bar6080 and the second row cleaner wheel 1060-2, 2060-2, 3060-2, 4060-2.Although not shown in FIG. 79 , a scraper may be provided over the thirdrow cleaner wheel axle bolts 6061 to scrape dirt or mud from the thirdrow cleaner wheel 6060 as it rotates similar to that described above inconnection with the embodiments 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000.

It should also be appreciated that although FIGS. 73-80 show the thirdrow cleaner wheel 6060 being mounted on the second side, adjacent to thesecond row cleaner wheels 1060-2, 2060-2, 3060-2, 4060-2, the third rowcleaner wheel 6060 may be mounted on the first side adjacent to thefirst row cleaner wheel 1060-1, 2060-1, 3060-1, 4060-1.

Row Cleaner Diverter Assembly

FIGS. 81-85 illustrate another embodiment of a row cleaner assembly 7000incorporating an embodiment of a row cleaner diverter assembly 7010.Although FIGS. 81-85 show the row cleaner assembly 7000 utilizing theembodiment of the row cleaner assembly 4000, it should be appreciatedthat any of the other embodiments of the row cleaner assemblies 1000,1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000A, 5000 as previously described maybe configured to incorporate a row cleaner diverter assembly 7000. Thus,rather than including separate sets of drawing figures for each of therow cleaner assembly embodiments, FIGS. 81-85 include reference numberscorresponding to each of the row cleaner assembly frames 1100, 2100,3100, 4100 and their respective components that may be adapted toinclude the row cleaner diverter assembly 7010.

FIG. 81 is a right front perspective view of the row cleaner assembly7000 incorporating an embodiment of a row cleaner diverter assembly7010. FIGS. 82 and 83 are top and bottom plan views, respectively, ofthe row cleaner assembly 7000 with the row cleaner diverter assembly ofFIG. 81 . FIG. 84 is the same view of the row cleaner assembly 70000 asshown in FIG. 81 , but with the row cleaner wheels removed to betterillustrate the embodiment of the row cleaner diverter assembly 7010.FIG. 85 is the same view as FIG. 84 but showing the row cleaner diverterassembly 7010 exploded. FIG. 86 is rear perspective view of the rowcleaner diverter assembly of FIG. 81 .

Referring to FIGS. 84-86 , the row cleaner diverter assembly 7010includes a vertically oriented diverter plate 7012 that is supported atthe forward end of the lower subframe 1100C, 2100C, 3100C, 4100C of therow cleaner frame assembly 1100, 2100, 3100, 4100 of any of the rowcleaner embodiments 1000, 1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000, 4000A,5000 such that the diverter plate 7012 is disposed between and extendsforwardly of the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2; 2060-1, 2060-2,3060-1, 3060-2; 4060-1, 4060-2 in the direction of travel asillustrated. It has been found that in some conditions, the row cleanerwheels 1060-1, 1060-2; 2060-1, 2060-2, 3060-1, 3060-2; 4060-1, 4060-2may pull the crop residue in both directions while leaving some of theresidue in the row or seed bed which can result in some crop residuebeing trapped in the seed trench 38 formed by the trailing openingassembly 234. Thus by positioning a diverter plate 7012 that extendsforwardly and between the row cleaning wheels, the diverter plate 7012lifts and divides the crop residue forward of the row cleaning wheelsforcing the crop residue to one or both sides so the row cleaner wheelscan more effectively move the crop residue from the row or seed bed,making it less likely that any crop residue will become trapped in theseed trench 38.

A leading edge 7014 of the diverter plate 7012 may be angled to form asharp knife edge. In other embodiments, the leading edge 7014 may have aflat, rounded or blunt edge. In some embodiments, the diverter plate7012 may have a profile such that an upper portion of the leading edge7014 a is convex in the direction of travel 11 and a lower portion 7014bis concave in the direction of travel 11.

In one embodiment, the diverter plate 7012 is sandwiched between twoside plates 7016-1, 7016-2. As best viewed in FIG. 85 , the diverterplate 7012 includes an elongated vertically oriented slot 7018 thataligns with apertures 7020 in the side plates 7016-1, 7016-2. Threadedconnectors 7022 extend through the apertures 7020 and the elongated slot7018 and are secured by nuts 7024. The elongated slot 7018 permits thediverter plate 7012 to be vertically adjustable relative to the sideplates 7016-1, 7016-2 so that the diverter plate 7012 may be positionedto contact the soil surface or to penetrate into the soil surface at adesired depth, which may be less than the seed depth or greater than theseed depth.

As best viewed in FIGS. 84 and 85 , the row cleaner diverter assembly7010 may include an adaptor assembly 7030 configured to mount with theforwardly extending row cleaner wheel support arms 1030-1, 1030-2;2030-1, 2030-2; 3030-1, 3030-2; 4030-1, 4030-2 comprising the lowersubframe 1100C, 2100C, 3100C, 4100C. As best viewed in FIGS. 85 and 86 ,the adaptor assembly 7030 may include a vertically oriented plate 7032attached to a base plate 7034 (such as by welding or other suitableconnection means). Rearwardly extending arms 7036-1, 7036-2 may attachto the base plate 7034 (such as by welding or other suitable connectionmeans). The rearwardly extending arms 7036-1, 7036-2 may have apertures7038 positioned to align with the apertures 1135, 2135, 3135, 4135 (orother apertures) in the row cleaner wheel support arms 1030-1, 1030-2;2030-1, 2030-2; 3030-1, 3030-2; 4030-1, 4030-2. If the apertures 7038are positioned to align with the apertures 1135, 2135, 3135, 4135, therow cleaner axle bolts 1061-1, 1061-2; 2061-1, 2061-2; 3061-1, 3061-2;4061-1, 4061-2 may be received through the aligned apertures 7038 and1135, 2135, 3135, 4135 to secure the adaptor assembly 7030 to the rowcleaner wheel support arms 1030-1, 1030-2; 2030-1, 2030-2; 3030-1,3030-2; 4030-1, 4030-2 in combination with other bolts and nuts (notshown). The vertical plate 7032 may include vertically spaced apertures7040 (FIG. 85 ) that align with any one of a series of upper and lowerhorizontally spaced apertures 7042 in the side plates 7016-1, 7016-2.Threaded connectors 7044 may extend through the aligned apertures 7040,7042 and may be secured by nuts 7046 to secure the side plates 7016-1,7016-2 and thus the diverter plate 7012 to the vertical plate 7032 ofthe adaptor assembly 7030. It should be appreciated that the series ofapertures 7042 permit the side plates 7016-1, 7016-2 to be adjustablypositioned forwardly and rearwardly with respect to the adapter assembly7030, and thus the row cleaner wheel support arms 1030-1, 1030-2;2030-1, 2030-2; 3030-1, 3030-2; 4030-1, 4030-2 and the row cleanerwheels 1060-1, 1060-2; 2060-1, 2060-2, 3060-1, 3060-2; 4060-1, 4060-2 tovary the distance that the diverter plate 7012 projects forwardly orrearwardly of the row cleaner wheels 1060-1, 1060-2; 2060-1, 2060-2,3060-1, 3060-2; 4060-1, 4060-2.

FIG. 87 is a front perspective view of an alternative embodiment of thediverter assembly adapted for use with the embodiment of the lowersubframe 4100C of the row cleaner assembly 4000 as shown in FIGS. 50 and69 . In this embodiment, the lower subframe 4100C includes a frontprojection 7050 extending forwardly from the row cleaner support arms4130-1, 4130-2. Each of the other embodiments of the row cleanerassemblies 1000, 1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000A and 5000 may befabricated with a similar front projection 7050. With this embodiment,the adaptor assembly 7030 may be omitted and the side plates 7016-1,7016-2 may mount directly to the front projection 7050 by threadedconnectors 7044 extending through the apertures 7042 in the side plates7016-1, 7016-2 and through the apertures 7052 in the front projection7050, secured by nuts 7046. The diverter plate 7012 attaches to the sideplates 7016-1, 7016-2 using the threaded connectors 7022 extendingthrough the apertures 7020 in the side plates 7016-1, 7016-2 alignedwith the elongated slot 7018 in the diverter plate 7012 and secured bynuts 7024 as in the previous embodiment.

Downforce Monitoring

It may be desirable to measure the load experienced by the row cleanerassembly 1000, 1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000, 4000A, 5000, 6000,7000 to determine if more or less downforce should be exerted by theactuator system 1300, 2300, 3300, 4300, 5300. Referring to FIGS. 88-91each of the embodiments 1000, 1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000,4000A is shown in side elevation with the respective first row cleanerwheel 1060-1, 2060-2, 3060-1, 4060-1 removed.

One way to measure the load experienced by the respective row cleanerassemblies is to utilize a load sensor 8000 disposed on the lowersubframe 1100C, 2100C, 3100C, 4100C. In one embodiment, the load sensor8000 may be a load pin 8002 which replaces the gauge wheel axle bolt1051, 2051, 3051, 4051 of the respective embodiments of the row cleanerassemblies 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000, 5000, 6000, 7000. An example of asuitable load pin 8002 is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 8,561,472.

In another embodiment, the load sensor 8000 may be a Wheatstone bridge8004 disposed on one or both of the row cleaner support arms 1130-1,1130-2; 2130-1, 2130-2; 3130-1, 3130-2; 4130-1, 4130-2 of the respectivelower subframes 1100C, 2100C, 3100C, 4100C.

In another embodiment, load sensor 8000 may comprise a load sensor 8010substantially the same as the handle assembly described in PCTPublication No. WO2019169369 which is designated by reference number(i.e., “1600”) therein. Referring to FIGS. 88-93 , the load sensor 8010is an assembly comprising a sleeve 8012 having a handle bracket 8014 atan upper end for pivotally connecting a handle 8016 with a pivot pin8018. Referring to FIGS. 92-93 , a lateral plate 8020 extends betweenthe linkages 1200-1, 1200-2; 2200-1, 2200-2; 3200-1, 3200-2; 4200-1,4200-2, or between the side rails 1121-1, 1121-2; 2121-1, 2121-2;3121-1, 3121-2; 4121-1, 4121-2 of the intermediate subframe 1100B,2100B, 3100B, 4100B, depending on the configuration. In someembodiments, the lateral plate 8020 may be the base member 1120, 2120,3120, 4120 of the intermediate subframe 1100B, 2100B, 3100B, 4100B. Thelateral plate 8020 includes a hole 8021 through which the sleeve 8012extends. A contact plate 8022 having a convex lower surface 8023 and acentral bore 8024 therethrough is disposed above the lateral plate 8020so that the convex lower surface 8023 contacts the lateral plate 8020. Aload sensing member 8030, such as a “pancake” load sensor (FIGS. 95-96 )having a hole 8032 therethrough, is disposed above the contact plate8022. The load sensing member 8030 includes a plurality of feet 8033(FIG. 96 ) positioned to allow the load sensing member 8030 to flex andmeasure force. The flexing of the load sensing member 8030 generates aload signal that is communicated to the monitor 50 or a control module(discussed later).

As best viewed in FIG. 94 , the sleeve 8012 has a first diameter 8034and a larger second diameter 8035 resulting in a shoulder 8036therebetween. The first and second diameters 8034, 8035 pass through thehole 8032 in the load sensing member 8030. The first diameter 8034 issized to pass through the central bore 8024 of the contact plate 8022,but the second diameter 8035 and shoulder 8036 are sized such that theyare unable to pass through the central bore 8024 of the contact plate8022.

Referring again to FIGS. 92 and 93 , bevel washers 8040 and 8042 aredisposed on the sleeve 8012 below the handle bracket 8014 and above theload sensing member 8030. The bevel washers 8040, 8042 are disposed withtheir concave surfaces facing each other allowing the bevel washers8040, 8042 to resiliently compress or flatten to absorb shocksexperienced by the row cleaner assembly 1000, 1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000,3000A, 4000, 4000A, 5000, 6000, 7000 to prevent overloading of the loadsensing member 8030. Before the bevel washers 8040, 8042 can be fullycompressed due to load, the shoulder 8036 of the sleeve 8012 willcontact the upper surface of the contact plate 8022 to limit thevertical travel of the sleeve 8012. A washer 8045 may be disposed belowthe lateral plate 8020. A shaft 8046 is received within a bore 8047(FIG. 94 ) at the lower end of the sleeve 8012. An axle bracket 8048 ismounted to the lower end of the shaft 8046. The axle bracket 8048includes an aperture 8049 for receiving either the row cleaner wheelaxle bolts 1061-1, 1061-2; 2061-1, 2061-2; 3061-1, 3061-2; 4061-1,4061-2 or a rod 8050 extending between row cleaner wheel support arms1130-1, 1130-2; 2130-1, 2130-2, 3130-1, 3130-2; 4130-1, 4130-2 proximatethe axis of the row cleaner wheel axle bolts 1061-1, 1061-2; 2061-1,2061-2; 3061-1, 3061-2; 4061-1, 4061-2.

It should be appreciated that although FIGS. 88-92 show all of thevarious types of load sensors 8000, 8002, 8004, 8010 on one row cleanerassembly 1000, 1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000, 4000A, it is forillustration purposes only to exemplify placement of the load sensors8000, 8002, 8004, 8010 since only one type of load measuring devicewould be needed per row cleaner assembly 1000, 1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000,3000A, 4000, 4000A, 5000, 6000, 7000. The load sensors 8000, 8002, 8004,8010 may be in signal communication with the monitor 50 to maintain adesired downforce. The load sensors 8000, 8002, 8004, 8010 may be indirect communication with the monitor or via a control module, or theload sensors 8000, 8002, 8004, 8010 may be part of a closed loop systemor an open loop system together with the actuator system 1300, 2300,3300, 4300, 5300 to maintain a desired downforce such as disclosed inInternational Publication No. WO2014018716. In arrangements utilizing acontrol module, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 9,173,339, thecontrol module may be an on-row module controlling the downforce of asingle row cleaner assembly 1000, 1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000,4000A, 5000, 6000, 7000 or the control module may be configured tocontrol the downforce across a plurality of row cleaner assemblies 1000,1000A, 2000, 2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000, 4000A, 5000, 6000, 7000 of theplanter 10. In either case, the signals from the load sensors 8000,8002, 8004, 8010 are communicated to and are processed by the controlmodule. In yet another embodiment, the controller may be a single ormultiple row control module as described in PCT Publication No.WO2014018717 wherein the load sensors 8000, 8002, 8004, 8010 areconnected to a CAN network having a CAN processor. In such anembodiment, the CAN processor may communicate signals from the loadsensors 8000, 8002, 8004, 8010 over the CAN network and the CANprocessor may communicate control signals over the CAN network tocontrol the downforce of one or more row cleaner assemblies 1000, 1000A,2000, 2000A, 3000, 3000A, 4000, 4000A, 5000, 6000, 7000.

The following are non-limiting examples.

Example 1—An agricultural row cleaner comprising: a frame; a first rowcleaner wheel disposed on a first side of the frame; a second rowcleaner wheel disposed on a second side of the frame; and a row cleanerdiverter connected to the frame and disposed forward of the first rowcleaner wheel and the second row cleaner wheel in a direction of traveland disposed between the first row cleaner wheel and the second rowcleaner wheel.

Example 2—The agricultural row cleaner of Example 1, wherein the rowcleaner diverter comprises a bracket that is attached to the frame and adiverter attached to the bracket, and the diverter has a leading edgedisposed forward in the direction of travel.

Example 3—The agricultural row cleaner of Example 2, wherein thediverter has an adjustable distance from the first row cleaner wheel andthe second row cleaner wheel in a direction of travel.

Example 4—The agricultural row cleaner of Example 2 or 3, wherein thediverter is adjustable vertically.

Example 5—The agricultural row cleaner of Example 4, wherein thediverter is disposed to contact a soil surface.

Example 6—The agricultural row cleaner of Example 4, wherein thediverter is disposed to penetrate soil.

Example 7—The agricultural row cleaner of Example 6, wherein thediverter penetrates soil to a depth above seeding depth.

Example 8—The agricultural row cleaner of any of Examples 2 to 7,wherein the leading edge is flat.

Example 9—The agricultural row cleaner of any of Examples 2 to 7,wherein the leading edge is angled.

Example 10—The agricultural row cleaner of Example 9, wherein leadingedge has a top portion that is convex in the direction of travel and alower portion that is concave in the direction of travel.

The foregoing description and drawings are intended to be illustrativeand not restrictive. Various modifications to the embodiments and to thegeneral principles and features of the modular metering system and metermodules, and processes described herein will be apparent to those ofskill in the art. Thus, the disclosure should be accorded the widestscope consistent with the appended claims and the full scope of theequivalents to which such claims are entitled.

1. An agricultural row cleaner comprising: a frame; a first row cleanerwheel disposed on a first side of the frame; a second row cleaner wheeldisposed on a second side of the frame; and a row cleaner diverterconnected to the frame and disposed forward of the first row cleanerwheel and the second row cleaner wheel in a direction of travel anddisposed between the first row cleaner wheel and the second row cleanerwheel.
 2. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 1, wherein the rowcleaner diverter comprises a bracket that is attached to the frame and adiverter attached to the bracket, and the diverter has a leading edgedisposed forward in the direction of travel.
 3. The agricultural rowcleaner of claim 2, wherein the diverter has an adjustable distance fromthe first row cleaner wheel and the second row cleaner wheel in adirection of travel.
 4. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 2, whereinthe diverter is adjustable vertically.
 5. The agricultural row cleanerof claim 4, wherein the diverter is disposed to contact a soil surface.6. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 4, wherein the diverter isdisposed to penetrate soil.
 7. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 6,wherein the diverter penetrates soil to a depth above seeding depth. 8.The agricultural row cleaner of claim 2, wherein the leading edge isflat.
 9. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 2, wherein the leadingedge is angled.
 10. The agricultural row cleaner of claim 9, whereinleading edge has a top portion that is convex in the direction of traveland a lower portion that is concave in the direction of travel.